Metropolitan Atlanta Hospital Accountability Project

• Get a yearly physical, which can alert you to any issues you may have that could lead to medical issues down the road. By knowing you may have a medical problem, you are able to take proactive steps towards your wellness. Be sure, though, to know the costs of each test before you have it so you are prepared for the bill once it comes.

• Get your teeth cleaned twice a year. Good oral hygiene is essential for good health, as issues with your teeth and gums can lead to more severe medical issues.

• Know your free or reduced clinics, and use these as your first stop for care. By utilizing neighborhood clinics, you can often avoid hospital visits, which are far more expensive than a clinic visit. Most clinics have waiting lists and limited hours of operations, so be sure to check with the individual clinic.

• Do not go to the emergency room unless it is a true emergency. As soon as you sign in at an emergency room, you have incurred a cost that ranges between $300 to $750, even before you see a nurse or doctor.

• If you do require hospital care and are not eligible for financial assistance, try negotiating with the hospital. Most will give you a discount on your care if you agree to pay the bill. You should, though, request an itemized bill that you scrutinize carefully so you don’t agree to pay for services, tests or medications you did not receive.

Many hospitals use the same financial standards for determining whether a health care consumer is eligible for financial assistance with their hospital bill. Generally, patients who are considered “indigent” will have most – if not all – of their medical bill written off, as they will likely be unable to pay. Patients who are not eligible but still cannot afford their bill due to income restraints are often eligible for reduced cost care, which is termed “charity care.” The below information does not apply to Medicaid.

You are considered medically indigent if your income is at the poverty level or below. For a family of one, this is $10,830. For a family of two, this amount is $14,570. You can find additional amounts on our Web site.

You are eligible for charity care if you make twice the Federal Poverty Level or below.

Know, though, that some financial resources – such as child support or disability payments – can also be counted in the income requirements.

Anyone who needs financial assistance with their hospital bill can apply for help through the hospital’s financial aid office. Generally, only people who live below or just above the federal poverty level are eligible to receive assistance, though most hospitals will offer some sort of discount to a patient who does not live at the poverty level but still needs help.

Hospitals most often require information such as proof of income, proof of residency and tax information to process your application. Most hospitals require a patient to reapply for financial assistance each time they visit the hospital.

Your hospital will likely automatically screen you for Medicaid eligibility. Be sure to ask, though, as you may be eligible for financial assistance through that program.