California Attorney General Xavier Becerra has ordered three California hospitals to continue to pay their charity care obligations required under state law. The Los Angeles Times reports, “Becerra’s refusal signals his agreement with health consumer advocates who argue that patients still are struggling to pay their bills, even when they have insurance.” Although the attorney general’s decision only applies to three hospital–Mission Community Hospital in Los Angeles, Emanuel Medical Center in Turlock, and the University of Southern California’s Verdugo Hills Hospital–the decision sends a message to hospitals around the state.
HCA member Jen Flory of Western Center on Law & Poverty says that charity care and discount payment plans are vital for consumers who have high-deductible plans or can’t afford their out-of-pocket costs. “Many of these plans may not be presented in the emergency room, but that doesn’t mean that there’s not additional outreach that hospitals could do to help these patients afford their care.”
See earlier coverage on this issue featuring the work of HCA member and partner organization advocate, Joy Dockter of Central California Legal Services (CCLS) located in Fresno County.
If you are struggling with a hospital bill, read our fact sheet on charity care or call the Health Consumer Alliance at (888) 804-3536.
