Understanding Unpaid Hospital Bills in the Context of Disability

Situation:

A woman named “Sister” suffered a stroke and was left with a significant unpaid hospital bill in Texas. She has since moved to California and is on Medi-Cal, however, the Texas bill remains unpaid.

Key Issues:

The sister is disabled and cannot work.
She has limited income and assets.
Despite being on Medi-Cal, she still faces a responsibility for the unpaid bill.

ACA-Related Topic:

Income-Based Eligibility for Health Insurance and Financial Assistance

The Affordable Care Act (ACA) has expanded access to health insurance for millions of Americans. It includes provisions for people who cannot afford health insurance on their own, such as those with low incomes or who have disabilities.

Financial Assistance Programs:

In this case, the sister may qualify for financial assistance programs that can help her pay for the unpaid bill. These programs include:

Medicaid: A joint federal and state program that provides health insurance to low-income individuals, including people with disabilities.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI): A federal program that provides cash assistance and medical benefits to people with disabilities or blindness who have limited income and resources.

Negotiating with the Hospital:

Most hospitals have charity care or financial assistance programs that can help low-income patients pay their medical bills. The sister can contact the hospital billing department and inquire about these programs. She may be eligible for a reduced balance or even a complete waiver of the bill.

Additional Considerations:

Power of Attorney: If the sister is unable to make decisions on her own behalf, it may be necessary to appoint a power of attorney to manage her finances and health care decisions.
Legal Assistance: If the hospital refuses to negotiate or forgive the bill, the sister may consider seeking legal advice. Disability attorneys can help her navigate the complex legal issues involved in unpaid medical bills.

Conclusion:

Unpaid hospital bills can be a significant burden for people with disabilities. The ACA provides financial assistance programs to help these individuals access health insurance and pay for medical expenses. By understanding her rights and the available resources, the sister in this case can explore options to address her unpaid bill and ensure her well-being.

Disclaimer:

This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal, financial, or medical advice. It is highly recommended that individuals consult with qualified professionals for personalized guidance in these matters.