A new study reveals major differences in how U.S. nonprofit hospitals decide who qualifies for financial help with medical bills.These inconsistencies lead to inequitable access to financial assistance and should be addressed by state and federal policymakers. The study, published in Health Affairs, used data from the national nonprofit organization Dollar For, which helps patients with financial aid applications.
While all nonprofit hospitals are required to offer charity care, they each set their own rules about who qualifies. For example, the study found that income limits for free care range widely—from 41% to 600% of the federal poverty level. More than half of hospitals investigate a patient’s assets, and a significant minority impose residency requirements. Additionally, hospitals in wealthier areas tend to have more generous limits, while hospitals in high-need areas are stricter. Some hospitals grant assistance to insured patients only if their bills make up a large part of their income.
“Getting help with medical bills shouldn’t be so confusing,” said Jared Walker, founder of Dollar For and co-author of the study. “Patients deserve a consistent, fair process so they can focus on their health.”
Read the full study here.
About Dollar For
Dollar For is a nonprofit dedicated to helping patients eliminate medical debt by guiding them through hospital financial assistance programs. Since 2019, Dollar For has helped patients get over $65 million in medical debt relief, making it easier for thousands of Americans to access the healthcare they deserve. For more information, visit Dollar For.