Charity Care

What it means

A hospital program that reduces or forgives medical bills for patients who cannot afford to pay. Every nonprofit hospital in New York (which includes most hospitals in Monroe County) must have a financial assistance policy. Eligibility is based on income and household size. Some hospitals cover patients at up to 300-400% of the federal poverty level. The patient applies through the hospital's billing or financial counseling department. If approved, the bill may be reduced by a percentage or written off entirely.

When you might hear this

You hear this when a hospital bill is too high. Charity care is the hospital's program to reduce or eliminate the bill based on income. Every nonprofit hospital in New York is required to have one.

What to ask