Financial Help for Hospital Patients

Outpatient hospital visits, procedures and services can be very costly. Lengthy inpatient hospital stays can be particularly expensive as well. Co-pays and expenses for services may render you unable to pay the hospital bill even if you have health insurance. These may even create situations of economic hardship. Fortunately, many forms of financial help are available for hospital patients in need.

Health Insurance

• Personal health insurance is the first place you should look for financial help as a hospital patient. Review the details your health insurance policy if you have one. There should be clear terms and conditions regarding what about your hospital visit or stay will be covered. Clarify any confusing points with a representative from your health insurance provider prior to your hospital visit if possible.

Government Assistance

• Government assistance is a popular means of financial help for hospital patients. Some government programs have financial requirements such as minimum and maximum income. There may be programs and grants, however, that you can make use of regardless of these factors. Inquire about Medicare and Medicaid if you live in the United States. Medicare and Medicaid are government-sponsored health plans that provide great financial help to cover hospital costs for eligible patients. Consider a comparable government-sponsored health plan in your area if you do not live in the United States.

  Americans also may visit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services link in the Resources section to search for various forms of government financial assistance for hospital bills. There you will find grant applications, loan information and descriptions of federal assistance programs.

Case Management and Financial Assistance Planning

• Case management departments specialize in helping hospital patients determine the best financial assistance options for their care. Consult a case manager or financial assistance planner from your health insurance provider or the hospital you stay in. She will help you come up with a plan to pay your hospital bills or find a hospital or facility you can afford.

Public and Non-Profit Health-care Facilities

• Visit a public or government-run hospital if you are worried about being able to afford necessary services. These facilities provide care for people who cannot afford to pay upfront. Depending on your income, there may not even be any charges at all. Some non-profit health-care facilities provide similar free and low-cost services. Discuss both of these cost-efficient hospital alternatives with a social worker or case manager. Either health-care professional will be able to help you find such an institution that is convenient for you.