A healthcare provider in California has announced it is going to forgive the unpaid medical debts for all of its patients that was incurred during the first three years COVID-19 pandemic.
By the Numbers: About 29,000 patients will have their medical debts wiped clean, according to the report. Those patients owed a combined $40.2 million to Community Hospital of the Monterrey Peninsula, which is operated by Montage Health. Anyone who was treated at the hospital between 2020 and 2022 and still has an unpaid balance will have it forgiven, the provider announced.
Helping Hand: The hospital noted that many of those who were carrying medical debt were “vital” members of the local workforce, including hospitality, agriculture, retail, teachers, and small business owners, along with many retired individuals living on a fixed income.
Why This Matters: There has been a growing movement in the past few years to forgive medical debts. RIP Medical Debt has been at the forefront of that effort, being used by a number of different organizations to purchase and forgive medical debts owed by consumers in communities across the country.
What They Said: “We sincerely hope this debt relief provides community members with peace of mind and brings an extra helping of joy to you and your families this holiday season,” said Matthew Morgan, the Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for Montage Health. “We wish you a very happy holiday, and health and success in the year ahead.”
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