In a groundbreaking move, New York Attorney General Letitia James and Northwell Health yesterday announced a historic agreement aimed at significantly improving access to financial assistance for millions of New Yorkers and “significantly” reducing medical debt collection efforts. This agreement, which applies to all 21 Northwell hospitals and 56 clinics, is set to provide free or discounted care to uninsured and under-insured patients earning up to five times the federal poverty level —$75,300 for an individual or $156,000 for a family of four.
Key Highlights of the Agreement:
- Expanded Financial Assistance:
- Uninsured or under-insured patients earning up to twice the federal poverty level will receive free medical care.
- Patients earning between three and five times the federal poverty level will receive discounted medical services based on Medicaid or Medicare rates.
- Simplified Public Notices:
- Northwell and the Office of the Attorney General (OAG) have worked together to make public notices on financial assistance more accessible and understandable for patients.
- Medical Debt Ombudsperson:
- Northwell will appoint a Medical Debt Ombudsperson to review accounts before any litigation is commenced. This role ensures that patients are given ample notice of financial assistance policies and the opportunity to apply for assistance.
- The Ombudsperson will also verify that there is a reasonable basis to believe the patient owes the debt and that the patient is not an enlisted service person, veteran, unemployed, disabled, or deemed incapacitated.
- Commitment to Reducing Medical Debt Collection:
- Northwell has committed to significantly reducing medical debt collection efforts. This includes dedicating more staff to help patients apply for financial assistance and ensuring that collection actions are a last resort.
- Annual Reporting:
- Northwell will provide annual reports to the OAG and the Northwell Board of Trustees on its financial assistance program, ensuring transparency and accountability.
“No one should face the choice between putting food on the table or receiving medical care,” James said. The agreement aims to alleviate the financial burdens that often lead patients to delay necessary healthcare due to high costs or insufficient coverage.
