* Help with Medical Bills
There are a number of resources available to individuals who need help paying for medical care and prescription drugs:
- State Human/Social Service Agencies offer direct aid and referrals to other organizations.
- State Medicaid Offices help you see if you qualify for help.
- Local Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Offices offer programs designed to help veterans.
- Eldercare Locator information specialists put you in contact with resources and programs designed to help seniors.
- State Children's Health Insurance Programs (SCHIP) help insure children of working families who cannot afford health insurance or get it through work.
- Benefits.gov allows you to complete a confidential questionnaire and receive a list of programs that may help.
- USA.gov: Benefits Page provides information on benefits, grants, and financial aid.
- Local Social Security Administration (SSA) Offices help those on Social Security and Medicare. You may also call the SSA at 1.800.772.1213.
- Disability.gov provides information and resources for people with disabilities.
- HealthCare.gov helps you find insurance options, compare care, learn about prevention, and understand the Affordable Care Act.
For Medicare recipients in need of help, contact the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) or view its Programs to Help You Pay Medical Expenses (PDF | requires Adobe Acrobat Reader) publication. You may also call or write to CMS at:
Phone: 1.877.267.2323 or 1.410.786.3000
Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
7500 Security Boulevard
Baltimore MD 21244-1850
Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA)
Under the EMTALA, hospitals receiving Medicare funds must evaluate anyone who comes to the emergency room and requests treatment. If the evaluation confirms that you have an emergency medical condition, including active labor, they are then required to provide stabilizing treatment for you regardless of your ability to pay.
Charity Care Programs
Charity care programs help uninsured patients who can't afford to pay their medical bills and don't qualify for government aid. The patient services department of your hospital can help you find out if you're eligible. If you do not qualify, the hospital may offer you a payment plan.
Need More Information? Try These Additional Resources:
The short link for this FAQ is http://1.usa.gov/o8d7HF
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