How to Get Financial Assistance With Medical Bills
Medical care can be very expensive. If you do not have health insurance, the cost can be astronomical. Even with health insurance, the amount that you are responsible for can add up quickly. If you are missing work due to your illness or to care for a loved one, it can be even more difficult to cover the expenses. There are programs and other services that you can use to help cover your medical bills. Some of these have income restrictions, while some do not. Do not be afraid to ask for help.
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Instructions
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Add up the amount of all of your medical bills. Then list the amount you owe to each organization or doctor's office on a separate sheet of paper, along with their contact information. This list will serve as a guide throughout the entire process. You may want to have a separate sheet of paper for each organization so that you can make notes as you find ways to pay the bills.
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Contact each hospital and doctor's office and explain your situation to them. Many are willing to reduce the amount you owe if you can pay them in a lump sum, or they may reduce the bill if you do not have health insurance. Others may be willing to put you on a payment plan that may make paying the bills manageable.
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Apply for government assistance. This is a great resource and can help with both past and future health care costs. There are income restrictions, although certain states offer assistance based on your diagnosis. When you go in to apply for help, bring all of your medical bills, so that they can determine which ones they can help you to pay.
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Look for local organizations that offer health care assistance. Some of these organizations may be able to offer reduced cost health care in the future, while others may help you find the money to catch up on your bills. Check with the crisis intervention organizations in your community. Organizations that work to help the homeless are a good place to start because they may know of other organizations or ministries that will be able to help you. These are great resources for the uninsured and unemployed.
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Consider seeking care by enrolling in a clinical trial. If this kind of medical or health care treatment is available in your area, you should see if you qualify. The treatment and medications, if any, are generally free, and you may receive additional payment for your time and travel. ClinicalTrials.gov offers a list of clinical trials available throughout the United States.
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Tips & Warnings
It is easier to find help before you end up with huge medical bills. If you need help, speak to your doctor and hospital to see if they know of free or low-cost programs that can help you receive the treatment that you need. They often know of additional programs that can help you on your road to recovery.
