Life Kit Rx For Medical Debt
Aug 9, 2019
Millions of Americans grapple with medical debt, but there are ways to lighten the load. From negotiating bills to finding financial assistance, valuable strategies empower listeners to take control of their healthcare costs. Personal stories illustrate the significance of self-advocacy, while practical tips encourage communication with debt collectors. Discover how understanding hospital resources and avoiding credit cards can lead to financial relief, and even hear quirky household tips that make managing expenses a bit easier!
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Ask For Help
- Ask for help with medical debt as soon as possible.
- Don't be afraid or ashamed, millions of Americans struggle with this.
Magic Words for Help
- When calling the hospital, ask about "financial assistance policy" or "charity care".
- Nonprofit hospitals are required to have these policies, and they might reduce or forgive your debt.
James's Heart Surgery Bill
- James Harrison faced a $100,000 bill for heart surgery due to insurance coding it as outpatient.
- This highlights how the "chargemaster rate," or sticker price, can be excessively high.