What charity care is
Charity care refers to free or discounted care provided by hospitals to patients with limited income. Nonprofit hospitals — which make up the majority of US hospitals — are required by the IRS to provide charity care as part of their community benefit obligations.
How it differs from Medicaid
Medicaid provides ongoing insurance coverage. Charity care applies to specific bills — it does not provide ongoing coverage. You can apply even if you had no insurance at the time of your care.
How to get it
Contact the hospital billing department or financial counselor and ask specifically about charity care. Request an application form.
⚠ Many patients don't know to askHospitals are not required to proactively offer charity care — you must request it.
General information only. Not legal or medical advice.