Hospital Financial Assistance
Start with the hospital's financial assistance program (charity care). Nonprofit hospitals must offer this. For-profit hospitals often have similar programs. Apply even if you think you earn too much -- thresholds can be generous (up to 400% of federal poverty level at some hospitals). Applications can be submitted retroactively.
Medicaid and CHIP
If your income is below your state's Medicaid threshold, you may qualify for Medicaid, which covers medical bills retroactively for up to 3 months before your application date. CHIP covers children in families that earn too much for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance. Apply through your state Medicaid office or healthcare.gov.
Patient Assistance Programs
Pharmaceutical companies offer patient assistance programs (PAPs) for expensive medications. NeedyMeds.org, RxAssist.org, and manufacturer websites list available programs. These can provide free or deeply discounted medications -- savings of thousands per year. Some programs cover medical devices and supplies as well.
Community Resources
211 connects you to local medical assistance. Community health centers provide care on a sliding scale. Free clinics provide no-cost care (find at nafcclinics.org). Disease-specific organizations (American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, etc.) offer financial assistance to patients. Veterans can access VA medical care. Churches and community organizations often have emergency medical funds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for multiple programs at once?
Yes, and you should. Programs have different eligibility criteria and cover different needs. Apply for everything you might qualify for -- hospital charity care, Medicaid, patient assistance programs, and community resources simultaneously.
What if I do not qualify for any programs?
Negotiate the bill directly. Request a payment plan. Dispute any errors. If the total medical debt is unmanageable, bankruptcy eliminates medical debt. Consider consulting a nonprofit credit counselor for a comprehensive financial review.
Is there help for dental bills?
Dental schools offer reduced-cost care. Community health centers provide dental services on a sliding scale. Some states cover dental under Medicaid for adults. Donated Dental Services (DDS) provides free care for people who cannot afford it and cannot get public aid.
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