How to Find Health Care Assistance to Help With Doctor Bills

Seeking medical treatment for an illness or disease can be a worrisome experience, especially if you are uncertain about the outcome of a test or procedure. In such circumstances, the last thing you want to worry about is paying for your medical bills. State and private agencies as well as local groups and organizations understand that the cost of medical tests and procedures can quickly add up. If you need financial assistance to help you pay for doctor bills, you have a number of options.

Instructions

• 1

  Set up a payment plan through the hospital's billing department. Agree to a payment structure that fits your budget. Request a discount for cash payments or automatic payments set up through a checking account.

• 2

  Contact your state's Health and Human Development Department. Inquire about a County Medical Services Program, which may provide eligible applicants with cash assistance or a medical card for medical services, or a General Assistance Cash Aid. Apply in person or as directed. Frequently, eligibility for such programs is based on a number of factors, such as your income, property, assets and ability to be employed.

• 3

  Contact a local church or nonprofit organization like the Salvation Army. Request cash aid to help pay for your medical bills. According to the Salvation Army website, you must complete a short in-person or phone interview to apply for cash aid. See Resources for a list of state charities.

• 4

  Apply for Medicaid if you have limited income and resources to pay your doctor bills. Certain groups such as seniors, people who are disabled, pregnant women and people leaving welfare may apply. Submit a completed application at any local Department of Family and Child Services office. Provide proof of your income. According to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, "The rules for counting your income and resources vary from state to state and from group to group."