Ohio State Wexner Medical Center Financial Assistance: Free Care at 200% FPL + Discounts to 400% FPL (2026 Guide)
The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center offers 100% free care (charity care) for patients with household income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level, plus discounted care for those earning up to 400% FPL. As a nonprofit 501(r) hospital system in Columbus, Ohio, Wexner Medical Center is required to offer financial assistance. The policy covers all OSU hospitals, including James Cancer Hospital, University Hospital, Ross Heart Hospital, and OSU East Hospital. Ohio residents may also qualify for HCAP (Hospital Care Assurance Program) at 100% FPL.
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Quick Facts
100% Free Care
Patients at 0-200% FPL (single: up to ~$31,920/yr) receive full charity care for medically necessary services
Discounted Care to 400% FPL
Patients at 201-400% FPL (~$63,840/yr single) qualify for reduced charges on hospital and physician bills
Ohio HCAP Program
State program covers hospital bills for Ohio residents at or below 100% FPL (~$15,960/yr single) who are not Medicaid eligible
All OSU Hospitals Covered
James Cancer Hospital, University Hospital, Ross Heart Hospital, OSU East, and Harding Hospital all included
Apply Through MyChart
You can now submit a financial assistance request, upload documents, and sign forms directly through MyChart (Menu > Financial Assistance or "Manage financial assistance" under Billing Summary).
Eligibility & Income Limits (2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines)
| Income Level (% FPL) | Approximate Income (Single) | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 0-100% FPL (HCAP) | Up to ~$15,960/yr | 100% Free Care (Ohio residents, hospital charges only) |
| 0-200% FPL (Wexner FA) | Up to ~$31,920/yr | 100% Free Care (hospital + physician charges) |
| 201-300% FPL | ~$31,921 - ~$47,880/yr | Discounted care (significant reduction) |
| 301-400% FPL | ~$47,881 - ~$63,840/yr | Discounted care (partial reduction) |
| Above 400% FPL | Above ~$63,840/yr | Not eligible (payment plans available) |
Important Notes
- Two programs available: HCAP covers hospital/facility bills for Ohio residents at 100% FPL or below. The Wexner FA Program covers both hospital and physician bills up to 400% FPL.
- Uninsured patients must cooperate with Medicaid screening before FA eligibility is determined.
- Policy number CC-14 (revised February 2025) governs all financial assistance decisions.
- Financial assistance covers medically necessary and emergency services only.
- Eligible patients will not be charged more than Amounts Generally Billed (AGB) to insured patients.
- Approval for 100% free care may be awarded for up to twelve months of services.
Hospitals & Facilities Covered
Ohio State Wexner Medical Center Hospitals (Columbus, OH)
Also Covered
The Wexner Medical Center Financial Assistance Program covers both hospital/facility charges and physician/professional charges billed by OSU providers. HCAP covers hospital/facility charges only. Contact (614) 293-2100 to confirm coverage for your specific service.
Documents You Will Need
Income Verification
- Recent pay stubs (at least 2-3 months)
- Most recent federal tax return
- Benefit letters (Social Security, disability, unemployment)
- Documentation of all household income sources
- Self-employment records (if applicable)
Other Documentation
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of Ohio residency (required for HCAP)
- Proof of household size
- Insurance information (or proof you are uninsured)
- OSU account number or billing statement
MyChart option: You can now upload documents and sign forms electronically through MyChart. Navigate to Menu > Financial Assistance or click "Manage financial assistance" under Billing Summary.
Important: Incomplete applications will delay processing. Make sure every required field is filled out, the application is signed, and all supporting documents are attached before submitting.
How to Apply (Step by Step)
Check Your Eligibility
100% free care for patients at 0-200% FPL (~$31,920/yr single). Discounted care for 201-400% FPL (~$63,840/yr single). Ohio residents at 100% FPL or below may qualify for HCAP (hospital charges only, must not be Medicaid eligible).
Contact Billing Customer Services
Call (614) 293-2100 to speak with a financial counselor. You can also start the process through MyChart (Menu > Financial Assistance) or visit the financial counseling office at any OSU hospital location.
Complete the Application
Download the Financial Assistance Application from wexnermedical.osu.edu or request one by phone. For HCAP, a separate HCAP application form is required. Fill out all required fields completely.
Submit Your Application
You can submit by:
- MyChart: Upload documents and sign forms electronically
- Mail: Send to the address listed on your application form
- In person: Patient Financial Services at any OSU Wexner hospital
- Phone: Call (614) 293-2100 for guidance on submission
Follow Up
Call (614) 293-2100 to confirm receipt and check status. Keep copies of everything you submit. If additional information is needed, respond promptly to avoid delays. Expect a determination within 30 days.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Missing the deadline: Apply within 240 days of your first billing statement.
- Incomplete application: Missing documents or unsigned forms will delay or prevent approval.
- Skipping Medicaid screening: Uninsured patients must cooperate with Medicaid/Ohio Medicaid screening before FA is determined.
- Wrong program: HCAP is for hospital charges only and requires Ohio residency. The Wexner FA Program covers both hospital and physician charges.
- Not asking about both programs: You may qualify for HCAP and the Wexner FA Program simultaneously. Ask about both when you call.
Overwhelmed by Your Ohio State Wexner Bill?
CareRoute Bill Defense can review your medical bills, identify errors, and negotiate with Ohio State Wexner Medical Center on your behalf. No upfront cost, and you only pay if we save you money.
Get Help with Your BillOhio Medical Billing Protections
Ohio patients have several protections under state and federal law. Understanding these rights can help you avoid overpaying or being subjected to aggressive collection practices.
Your Protections
- No Surprises Act: You cannot be balance billed for emergency services at out-of-network facilities or for out-of-network providers at in-network hospitals.
- Ohio HCAP: State-funded program providing free hospital care to Ohio residents at or below 100% FPL who are not Medicaid eligible.
- 501(r) protections: As a nonprofit hospital, OSU Wexner cannot initiate extraordinary collection actions for at least 120 days from the initial billing date, and must provide 30 days written notice before any ECAs.
- Good faith estimates: Uninsured patients can request a good faith estimate before receiving care. If your bill exceeds the estimate by $400 or more, you can dispute it.
- 240-day application window: You have at least 240 days from your first post-discharge billing statement to submit a complete financial assistance application.
Payment Plans & Other Options
Even if you do not qualify for financial assistance, Ohio State Wexner Medical Center offers several options to help manage your bill:
- Interest-free payment plans: OSU Wexner offers payment arrangements to break your balance into manageable monthly installments.
- Online bill pay: Manage your account and make payments through MyChart at mychart.osu.edu.
- Prompt pay discount: Ask about discounts for paying your balance in full within a specified timeframe.
- Ohio Medicaid: If you are uninsured, OSU can help screen you for Ohio Medicaid, which covers individuals up to 138% FPL.
- Request an itemized bill: Always review your itemized bill for errors before paying. Billing mistakes are common, especially with complex procedures.
- Marketplace insurance: Financial counselors can help you explore ACA Marketplace coverage options if you are currently uninsured.
What If You Are Denied?
1. Appeal the Decision
Call Patient Billing Customer Service at (614) 293-2100 to discuss the denial and initiate an appeal. You will receive a decision on your appeal within 30 days. Common denial reasons include income above 400% FPL, incomplete documentation, missing signature, or failure to cooperate with Medicaid screening.
2. Reapply with Additional Documentation
If your situation has changed or you can provide more complete documentation, submit a new application. Double-check that the form is signed, all fields are complete, and supporting documents are attached.
3. Check Both Programs
If you were denied for the Wexner FA Program, ask about HCAP eligibility (Ohio residents at 100% FPL or below). If denied for HCAP, the Wexner FA Program may still cover you at higher income levels up to 400% FPL.
4. Explore Other Options
- Ohio Medicaid: Covers residents up to 138% FPL
- Payment plans: OSU Wexner offers interest-free installment arrangements
- Request an itemized bill: Review charges for errors or duplicate billing
- Negotiate directly: Call billing and ask about reduced rates or settlement offers
- Dollar For: Free nonprofit service that helps patients apply for charity care at nonprofit hospitals
Let CareRoute Bill Defense Help
If your application was denied or you need help negotiating your Ohio State Wexner bill, CareRoute Bill Defense can review your case and negotiate on your behalf at no upfront cost.
Get Help with Your BillContact Information
Billing Customer Services
Call to request application, check status, or initiate an appeal
Online & In Person
Official Policy Documents
- Financial Assistance Main Page
- Financial Assistance Policy (Revised Feb 2025, PDF)
- HCAP Application (PDF)
Applications and policy documents are available in multiple languages. Call (614) 293-2100 or visit the financial assistance website to download forms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for Ohio State Wexner Medical Center financial assistance?
Patients with household income at or below 200% FPL (~$31,920/yr single) qualify for 100% free care. Patients with income up to 400% FPL (~$63,840/yr single) qualify for discounted care. Ohio residents at or below 100% FPL who are not Medicaid eligible can also qualify through the HCAP program.
Does the policy cover James Cancer Hospital?
Yes. The financial assistance policy applies to all Ohio State Wexner Medical Center facilities, including The James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute, University Hospital, Ross Heart Hospital, OSU East Hospital, and Harding Hospital. Both hospital and physician charges are covered under the Wexner FA Program.
What is HCAP and how is it different?
HCAP (Hospital Care Assurance Program) is a State of Ohio program that covers hospital/facility charges for Ohio residents at or below 100% FPL who are not eligible for Medicaid. The Wexner Medical Center Financial Assistance Program is separate and broader, covering both hospital and physician charges for patients up to 400% FPL, regardless of state residency.
Can I apply through MyChart?
Yes. You can submit a financial assistance request, upload required documents, and sign forms electronically through MyChart. Navigate to Menu > Financial Assistance, or click "Manage financial assistance" under the Billing Summary section of your MyChart dashboard.
Can I appeal if I am denied?
Yes. If you disagree with the financial assistance decision, you can appeal by calling Patient Billing Customer Service at (614) 293-2100. You will be notified of the appeal decision within 30 days. If your circumstances have changed, you can also submit a new application with updated documentation.
What are my rights as an Ohio patient?
Ohio patients are protected by the federal No Surprises Act (limiting surprise out-of-network billing), 501(r) nonprofit hospital rules (240-day application window, restrictions on collection actions), and the state HCAP program. Ohio State Wexner cannot send your bill to collections or initiate extraordinary collection actions for at least 120 days from your first billing statement.
Need Help with Your Ohio State Wexner Bill?
CareRoute Bill Defense can review your medical bills, identify savings opportunities, and negotiate with Ohio State Wexner Medical Center on your behalf. No upfront cost.
Start Your Free Case ReviewThis guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Information is based on publicly available Ohio State Wexner Medical Center financial assistance policies as of 2026 (Policy CC-14, revised February 2025). Eligibility requirements, income thresholds, and application processes may change. Always verify current requirements directly with Ohio State Wexner Medical Center at (614) 293-2100 or visit wexnermedical.osu.edu.