HCA offers an Ethically Responsible Billing policy providing discounts for uninsured patients earning below 400% of the Federal Poverty Level. Patients below 200% FPL may qualify for full write-offs.
Income Eligibility
Up to 400% FPL for discounts; up to 200% FPL for full charity care
Tax Exemption Value
N/A (for-profit)
Charity Care Provided
$3.4 billion in uncompensated care (2023)
Nonprofit hospitals receive tax exemptions in exchange for providing community benefits including charity care. Under IRS Section 501(r), they are required to have a written financial assistance policy and may not pursue extraordinary collection actions before making reasonable efforts to determine eligibility.
- 1Submit a Financial Assistance Application with proof of income, tax returns, and bank statements to the facility's Patient Financial Services department within 240 days of first billing statement.
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Generate Your Charity Care Application — $49As a patient at HCA Healthcare, you have the right to:
- Receive a plain-language summary of the hospital's financial assistance policy before being billed
- Apply for financial assistance up to 240 days after your first billing statement
- Not be sent to collections or have liens placed on your property while your application is pending
- Receive emergency care regardless of your ability to pay, under EMTALA federal law
- Request an itemized bill with every charge explained in detail
- Dispute any charge you believe is inaccurate or unfair
- Be charged no more than the amounts generally billed to insured patients if you qualify for financial assistance
- Have your financial assistance application reviewed within a reasonable time frame