Programs That Assist With Paying Medical Bills

Medical debt accounts for half of the bankruptcies filed in the United States each year. But people with medical debt have options for reducing or eliminating their medical bills.

Hospitals

• Almost all non-profit hospitals provide financial assistance or have medical grant programs, so inquire here first when seeking help paying bills. Usually a special committee or director is assigned to determine whether you meet the hospital's qualifications, which are based on a patient's income and ability to pay. The U.S. government requires hospitals to provide a level of charitable care for the uninsured in order to receive tax exemptions. Even if the hospital doesn't approve you for financial aid, it can at least arrange a repayment schedule based on your ability to pay.

Charities

• National and state charities, such as the National Patient Advocate Foundation and The United Way, will sometimes offer help or connect you with organizations that can help pay medical bills. Applicants must be able to prove a need for assistance.

Federal grants

• Health care grants do not have to be repaid and can be used for prescription drugs, medical services and more. However, such grants can often be difficult to find. You can search online, but you must be specific. One place to start is www.govbenefits.gov, which can help determine if you are eligible for other government programs as well.

Settlement companies

• If you feel unable to settle a medical debt yourself, there are thousands of companies–both non-profit and for profit–that can handle the negotiations and paperwork for you.