Will hospital in Texas sue if you have no money to pay bill?

It is possible for a hospital in Texas to sue a patient if they have no money to pay their medical bills. However, there are certain protections in place for patients who are unable to pay, and the hospital must follow certain procedures before they can take legal action.

Pre-Litigation Requirements:

Before filing a lawsuit, a hospital in Texas must first attempt to collect the debt through other means, such as:

- Sending the patient a bill.

- Trying to contact the patient by phone or mail.

- Referencing the account to a collection agency.

- Offering a payment plan to the patient.

Lawsuits:

If a patient does not respond to these attempts to collect the debt, the hospital may file a lawsuit. However, the hospital must comply with certain restrictions and requirements when filing a lawsuit, including:

- Providing Notice: The hospital must provide the patient with written notice of the lawsuit. The notice must be served in person or sent by certified mail, return receipt requested.

- Giving Opportunity to Respond: The hospital must provide the patient with a reasonable opportunity to respond to the lawsuit. This opportunity includes the chance to file an answer or other written response.

- Seeking Appropriate Damages: The hospital can only seek reasonable and necessary damages in a lawsuit. This means that the hospital can only seek reimbursement for the actual costs that they incurred in providing medical care to the patient.

Avoiding Lawsuits

There are several steps that patients can take to avoid being sued by a hospital for unpaid medical bills:

- Try to Work Out a Payment Plan: If you cannot afford to pay your hospital bill in full, contact the hospital and try to work out a payment plan. Most hospitals are willing to work with patients to establish a payment plan that fits their budget.

- Qualify for Financial Assistance Many hospitals offer financial assistance to patients who have low incomes or no insurance. Contact the hospital and see if you qualify for any of these programs.

- Seek Legal Advice: If you are being sued by a hospital for unpaid medical bills, seek legal advice from an experienced attorney. A lawyer can help you to understand your rights and options and can represent you in court, if necessary.

It is important to note that state laws regarding hospital lawsuits can vary. Therefore, it is advisable to consult with a qualified attorney or consult the laws specific to Texas to obtain accurate information.