What Are Hospital Financial Assistance Programs?

Hospital financial assistance programs help patients reduce or manage their medical bills through discounted care, flexible payment plans, or full coverage for those who qualify. These programs vary by hospital and may include charity care, which provides free or reduced-cost care to low-income or uninsured patients. While nonprofit hospitals are required to offer charity care under IRS rules, for-profit hospitals may offer financial assistance voluntarily.

How do hospital financial assistance programs work?

• Charity care vs. financial assistance: Charity care covers the cost of medical services for patients who meet strict income limits, while financial assistance programs may include sliding-scale discounts or extended payment plans.
• Eligibility depends on hospital policies: Some programs apply only to emergency care, while others assist with planned procedures and hospital stays.
• Application process required: Patients typically need to provide proof of income, insurance status, and financial hardship to apply.

How Solace can help

A Solace advocate can help you determine eligibility, gather required documents, and apply for financial assistance. They can also work with hospitals to negotiate payment plans or explore additional options to lower your medical costs.

What to do next

Struggling with hospital bills? A Solace advocate can help you explore financial assistance programs and find relief. Find an advocate today.