Hospital financial assistance
Nonprofit hospitals must offer financial assistance programs. Applications can sometimes be submitted retroactively after receiving the bill.
Nonprofit medical debt relief
Organizations like RIP Medical Debt purchase and forgive medical debt portfolios. Patients are typically selected for debt forgiveness rather than applying directly.
State and government programs
Some states have medical debt relief programs or expanded Medicaid that can address existing medical debt. Qualifying for Medicaid after care can sometimes result in retroactive coverage.
Medical debt and bankruptcy
Medical debt is dischargeable in bankruptcy. Chapter 7 eliminates unsecured debt including medical bills — but has long-term credit implications and should be a last resort.
General information only. Not legal or financial advice.