WellStar Health System Financial Assistance: Free Care at 0-125% FPL + Discounts to 300% FPL (2026 Guide)
WellStar Health System offers 100% free care for patients with household income at or below 125% of the Federal Poverty Level, plus sliding-scale discounts for income up to 300% FPL. As Georgia's largest nonprofit health system, WellStar operates 11 hospitals across the state, including Kennestone Regional Medical Center in Marietta, North Fulton in Roswell, and MCG Health in Augusta. This guide covers eligibility, how to apply, hospital locations, payment plans, and the controversy surrounding WellStar's closure of Atlanta Medical Center.
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Quick Facts
100% Free Care
Household income at 0-125% FPL (single: up to ~$19,950/yr) qualifies for fully free medically necessary hospital care
Discounts to 300% FPL
Sliding-scale discounts for income 126-300% FPL (~$47,880/yr single), with up to 97% discount at 126-200% FPL
11 Hospitals Across Georgia
From metro Atlanta (Kennestone, Cobb, North Fulton) to Augusta (MCG Health) and beyond
240-Day Application Window
From your date of service or first post-discharge billing statement. Processing takes up to 30 days.
Covers Insured Patients Too
Both insured and uninsured patients are eligible. Insured patients can get help with out-of-pocket costs including deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. Uninsured patients must cooperate with Medicaid screening first.
$6B+ Revenue, Nonprofit Status, and Controversy
WellStar generates billions in annual revenue as a tax-exempt nonprofit, yet closed two hospitals in 2022 that served predominantly Black and low-income communities in Atlanta. Federal civil rights complaints followed. If you received care at a WellStar facility, you have the right to apply for financial assistance.
Eligibility & Income Limits (2026 Federal Poverty Guidelines)
| Income Level (% FPL) | Approximate Income (Single) | Discount Level |
|---|---|---|
| 0-125% FPL | Up to ~$19,950/yr | 100% Free Care |
| 126-200% FPL | ~$19,951 - ~$31,920/yr | Up to 97% discount (charged no more than AGB) |
| 201-300% FPL | ~$31,921 - ~$47,880/yr | Sliding-scale discount (must meet qualifying assets test) |
| Above 300% FPL | Above ~$47,880/yr | Not eligible (payment plans available) |
Important Notes
- Both insured and uninsured patients are eligible for financial assistance.
- Your allowable medical expenses must be greater than 20% of household income for patients in the 201-300% FPL range.
- Uninsured patients must cooperate with Medicaid and government assistance screening before FA eligibility is determined.
- Medical indigency: Even if your income is above 300% FPL, you may qualify if medical expenses have depleted your family's income and resources.
- Apply within 240 days of the service date or first billing statement.
- WellStar will never charge FA-eligible patients more than Amounts Generally Billed (AGB) to insured patients.
- Processing takes up to 30 days after all required documents are received.
Georgia Healthcare Context: Why This Matters
Georgia has one of the highest uninsured rates in the country, and understanding WellStar's financial assistance program is especially important given the state's limited safety net.
Limited Medicaid Expansion
Georgia did not fully expand Medicaid under the ACA. Instead, the state launched Georgia Pathways to Coverage in 2023, a partial expansion covering adults up to 100% FPL who meet work requirements. After two years, only about 8,000 Georgians were actively enrolled, far short of the estimated 400,000+ eligible. This leaves a massive coverage gap for low-income adults.
High Uninsured Rate
Georgia consistently ranks among the top states for uninsured residents. Hundreds of thousands of adults fall into the coverage gap: they earn too much for Medicaid Pathways but too little to afford marketplace plans. WellStar's financial assistance program is a critical safety net for these patients.
Rural Hospital Closures
Georgia has lost more rural hospitals than nearly any other state. Combined with WellStar's own closures in Atlanta (see below), many communities face shrinking access to care. If you live in an area affected by closures, knowing your financial assistance options at remaining facilities is essential.
Atlanta Medical Center Closures (2022): What You Should Know
In late 2022, WellStar closed Atlanta Medical Center (downtown Atlanta) and AMC South (East Point), along with more than a dozen affiliated clinics. These closures remain deeply controversial and are relevant context for anyone dealing with WellStar billing.
Community Impact
Atlanta Medical Center was located in a community where 31% of residents live in poverty and 42% are Black. It was one of only two Level I trauma centers in Atlanta (alongside Grady) and had a busy obstetrics department. The closure created a healthcare desert in south Atlanta, forcing patients to travel significantly farther for emergency and specialty care.
Federal Civil Rights Complaints
State legislators and Fulton County leaders filed federal complaints with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, alleging WellStar violated Title VI of the 1964 Civil Rights Act by closing hospitals that served primarily Black populations while continuing to operate facilities in wealthier, whiter communities. Community advocates described the closures as "an intentional failure."
WellStar's Response
WellStar cited poor financial performance, inflation, and losses from uncompensated care as reasons for the closures. Critics noted that as a nonprofit system generating billions in revenue, WellStar had the resources to sustain these hospitals. Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens and others said WellStar gave no notice or opportunity to help find alternatives.
Why This Matters for Your Bill
WellStar's nonprofit tax-exempt status obligates it to provide community benefits, including financial assistance. If you are struggling with a WellStar bill, you have every right to apply for charity care. Do not assume you do not qualify. WellStar's own data shows it provides the second-highest charity care percentage among large U.S. health systems.
Struggling with a WellStar Bill?
CareRoute Bill Defense can review your medical bills, identify errors, and negotiate with WellStar on your behalf. Many patients qualify for financial assistance and do not realize it. We can help at no upfront cost.
Get Help with Your WellStar BillWellStar Hospitals Covered (Georgia)
Metro Atlanta Hospitals
Regional Hospitals
Closed Facilities (2022)
If you have outstanding bills from Atlanta Medical Center or AMC South, contact WellStar's FAP Department at 470-245-9998 to discuss financial assistance options.
WellStar also operates urgent care centers, health parks, and outpatient facilities across Georgia. Kennestone is undergoing a $400 million expansion with a new 235-bed patient tower opening in 2026.
Documents You Will Need
Income Verification
- Recent pay stubs (last 30 days)
- Most recent federal tax return
- Benefit letters (Social Security, disability, unemployment)
- Bank statements
- Income documentation for all household members
Other Documentation
- Proof of Georgia residency
- Government-issued photo ID
- Insurance information (if applicable)
- Documentation of qualifying medical expenses
- Asset information (for 201-300% FPL applicants)
Important: Incomplete applications will delay processing. Make sure every field is filled out and all required supporting documents are included. Processing takes up to 30 days after all documents are received.
How to Apply (Step by Step)
Check Your Eligibility
100% free care at 0-125% FPL (~$19,950/yr single). Up to 97% discount at 126-200% FPL (~$31,920/yr single). Sliding-scale discounts at 201-300% FPL (~$47,880/yr single). Use the FPL table above to check your household size.
Contact the FAP Department
Call 470-245-9998 or visit a financial counselor at any WellStar hospital. Counselors are available onsite and can help you understand which programs you may qualify for, including Medicaid and other government assistance.
Complete the Application
Download the FAP application from wellstar.org or request one in person or by phone. Include all required supporting documents (bank statements, tax returns, income verification).
Submit Your Application
You can submit by:
- Mail: WellStar Health System, P.O. Box 748733, Atlanta, GA 30374
- Fax: 770-792-1737
- In person: Financial counselor at any WellStar hospital registration or discharge area
Follow Up
Call 470-245-9998 to confirm receipt and check status. Processing takes up to 30 days after all requested documents are received. Keep copies of everything you submit.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Missing the deadline: Apply within 240 days of the service date or first billing statement.
- Incomplete application: Missing documents will delay your application. Double-check that all required items are included.
- Skipping Medicaid screening: Uninsured patients must cooperate with Medicaid and government assistance screening before FA is determined.
- Ignoring the qualifying assets test: Patients at 201-300% FPL must meet additional asset requirements. Ask a counselor for details.
- Not applying because you have insurance: Insured patients are eligible too. Do not assume insurance disqualifies you.
Payment Plans & Financing Options
If you do not qualify for financial assistance (or have a remaining balance after FA is applied), WellStar offers several payment options:
CarePayment (0% Interest Financing)
WellStar partners with CarePayment to offer 0% interest payment plans. No penalties for early payments. Set up automatic payments from your credit/debit card or bank account.
MyChart Payment Plans
Log in to your WellStar MyChart account and navigate to Billing, then Account Summary to set up a payment plan online. For help, call the MyChart Patient Help Desk at 1-470-644-0419.
Customer Service
Call 470-245-9998 to discuss custom payment arrangements based on your financial situation.
Warning: Collections and ECAs
WellStar may pursue Extraordinary Collection Actions (ECAs) for unpaid balances, including reporting to credit agencies, selling debt to third parties, or taking legal action. However, WellStar will not use ECAs against patients who qualify under the FAP. If you receive collection notices, apply for financial assistance immediately and call 470-245-9998.
What If You Are Denied?
1. Contact the FAP Department
Call 470-245-9998 to discuss the denial. Common reasons include income above 300% FPL, incomplete documentation, 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. Pay attention to the qualifying assets test if your income is 201-300% FPL.
3. Explore Medical Indigency
Even if your income exceeds 300% FPL, you may qualify for assistance if your medical expenses have depleted your family's income and resources. Ask a financial counselor about the medical indigency provision.
4. Other Options
- Georgia Medicaid Pathways: Covers adults up to 100% FPL who meet work requirements
- ACA Marketplace: Open enrollment or special enrollment for qualifying events
- Payment plans: 0% interest financing through CarePayment
- Request an itemized bill: Review every charge for errors or duplicate billing
- Negotiate: Ask for a discount, especially if you can pay a lump sum
Let CareRoute Bill Defense Help
If your application was denied or you need help negotiating your WellStar bill, CareRoute Bill Defense can review your case and negotiate on your behalf at no upfront cost.
Get Help with Your BillContact Information
FAP Department
Mail & Online
Frequently Asked Questions
Who qualifies for WellStar financial assistance?
Patients with household income at or below 125% FPL (~$19,950/yr single) qualify for 100% free care. Patients at 126-200% FPL receive discounts up to 97% of AGB. Patients at 201-300% FPL may qualify for sliding-scale discounts if they meet the qualifying assets test. Both insured and uninsured patients are eligible.
Does WellStar cover insured patients?
Yes. Both insured and uninsured patients are eligible for financial assistance. Insured patients can receive help with out-of-pocket costs including deductibles, copays, and coinsurance. Do not assume having insurance disqualifies you.
What is the qualifying assets test?
For patients with income between 201-300% FPL, WellStar requires that your allowable medical expenses be greater than 20% of household income to qualify. This is sometimes called the "medical indigency" provision. Contact a financial counselor at 470-245-9998 for details on how assets are evaluated.
How long does the application take?
Processing takes up to 30 days after all required documents are received. If your application is incomplete, WellStar will request additional documentation, which restarts the processing clock. Submit everything upfront to avoid delays.
Can I apply after receiving a collections notice?
Yes, as long as you apply within 240 days of the service date or first post-discharge billing statement. WellStar will not pursue Extraordinary Collection Actions against patients with a pending FAP application. If you have already been sent to collections, contact the FAP Department at 470-245-9998 immediately.
Why did WellStar close Atlanta Medical Center?
WellStar cited financial losses, but the closures of Atlanta Medical Center and AMC South in 2022 were highly controversial. The hospitals served predominantly Black and low-income communities. Federal civil rights complaints were filed, and community advocates described the closures as creating a healthcare desert. The AMC site is now being demolished.
Does WellStar offer 0% interest payment plans?
Yes. WellStar partners with CarePayment to offer 0% interest financing with no early payment penalties. You can set up payment plans through MyChart or by calling 470-245-9998. Plans are customized based on your financial situation.
Need Help with Your WellStar Bill?
CareRoute Bill Defense can review your medical bills, identify savings opportunities, and negotiate with WellStar on your behalf. No upfront cost. We handle everything from financial assistance applications to billing errors and overcharges.
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 WellStar Health System financial assistance policies as of 2026. Eligibility requirements, income thresholds, and application processes may change. Always verify current requirements directly with WellStar at 470-245-9998 or visit wellstar.org. WellStar settled a $2.7 million Medicaid billing investigation with the State of Georgia in 2010 and has faced additional federal complaints related to hospital closures.