Hospital Financial Assistance Programs
Find specific charity care programs, eligibility requirements, and step-by-step application guides for major hospital systems. Most nonprofit hospitals are required to offer financial assistance and cannot charge eligible patients more than typical insurance rates.
What You Should Know
✓ Nonprofit Hospitals Must Help
Required to offer financial assistance and screen patients for eligibility
✓ Rate Protection
Eligible patients cannot be charged more than typical insurance rates (AGB)
✓ Common Thresholds
100% free care often available up to 200% Federal Poverty Level
✓ Apply Anytime
Most hospitals accept applications before, during, or after treatment
Hospital-Specific Programs
Baylor Scott & White Health
Medical City Hospitals (All Texas Locations)
Texas Health Resources (29+ Hospitals)
Cleveland Clinic
Mayo Clinic
Houston Methodist
Memorial Hermann
Texas Children's Hospital
How to Use These Guides
Find Your Hospital
Select your hospital system from the list above to see specific eligibility requirements and application processes.
Check Eligibility
Review income thresholds, required documents, and any special requirements like geographic restrictions.
Apply With Confidence
Follow step-by-step instructions, use our document checklists, and contact information for help.
General Application Tips
Before You Apply:
- • Gather all required documents before starting your application
- • Calculate your household income including all sources
- • Check if your hospital has geographic requirements
- • Ask about billing holds while your application is reviewed
During Application:
- • Complete all sections - incomplete applications delay processing
- • Include all household members and income sources
- • Keep copies of everything you submit
- • Get confirmation that your application was received
If Your Charity Care Application is Denied
Don't give up if your financial assistance is denied. You have options:
- • Appeal the decision with additional documentation
- • Request a payment plan directly with the hospital
- • Ask about prompt-pay discounts for self-pay patients
- • Review your bill for errors (80% of medical bills contain them)
Need Professional Help? Complex bills and denied applications can be overwhelming to handle alone.
Bill Defense Service• Expert negotiators handle everythingNo upfront costs - you only pay if we reduce your bill
Additional Resources
State-Specific Bill Rights
Know your protections under state law
Don't See Your Hospital?
We're continuously adding more hospital-specific guides. In the meantime, here are general resources that work with most hospitals:
Disclaimer: Hospital financial assistance policies change frequently. Always verify current policies directly with the hospital. CareRoute is not affiliated with any hospital system mentioned on this page.