It is extremely important not to delay seeking medical care out of concern that you can’t pay your medical bill. And it’s become a more serious issue of late due to the COVID-19 pandemic causing many people to lose their jobs and the health insurance that coincides with their employment.
Many people have also put off going to see their doctor in recent months out of fear of COVID-19, in addition to concerns over the cost of seeking care.
Charges for copays, deductibles, and medications can add up in a hurry, but throughout the U.S., there are charity programs and government agencies that help with medical bills, transportation and lodging costs, as well as other financial obligations that arise.
Fortunately, Federal government and non-profit funded grants can help pay medical bills and the resources are available from a number of private as well as public organizations. They can be a very good option to those who have limited resources and are out of options when it comes to paying health care bills.
Many hospitals also have programs that assist patients. Also, it doesn’t matter if you have a good credit score or not. You can still qualify for these programs even if you are considered low income or have poor credit. In addition, government aid, as well as non-profit grants, tends to also be tax free.
There also may be grants available from local or national stimulus packages, hospital chains, pharmaceutical companies, non-profits including the United Way, raise money for that purpose, and there are many other institutions that offer financial aid. Depending on the source of the money, some of them will be considered government grants, but other funds for paying medical bills are more charitable in nature.
Also available these days are the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, a stimulus package that was signed into law on March 27, 2020. It offers help in many forms for individuals and businesses affected by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
State funded programs may include TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families), Medicaid, or Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and in Indiana, the Healthy Indiana Plan (HIP) Plus program is tremendously beneficial to those who qualify.
Many hospitals will work with patients on their bills and can help you set up a payment plan with small payment amounts that will make monthly bills more manageable. Don’t be shy — be honest with your hospital’s billing department about what you can and can’t afford to pay. It’s best to share your monthly income and other debts with them, as this will help paint a larger picture of your financial situation.
I can’t stress the importance of not delaying health care during this time of COVID-19. Many people have delayed or skipped important appointments and I have seen more recently kids getting behind in their most important shots. It is vital that you have regular health checkups. Remember by taking care of yourself you will be able to take care of your loved ones too.
People who believe they may have been exposed to COVID-19 should contact their health care provider immediately. If you are ill with flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough or shortness of breath, please call your health center or clinic before coming to your appointment. At Eskenazi Health, please call 317-880-7666 before coming to your appointment. Health care professionals are available 24/7 to answer questions on symptoms and direct you to the most appropriate care. It is important to first call before arriving at Eskenazi Health.
Diana Morales-Zelaya M.D.
Family Medicine Specialist
Eskenazi Health
