Increase Healthcare Access and Reduce Costs Through Philanthropic Aid

The pandemic, inflation and rising deductibles and premiums have created more challenges for patients to access and afford care. Today, Americans owe more than $195 billion in medical debt, most of which lies with people who owe over $10k. In many cases, vulnerable patients with complex diseases end up choosing between treatment and the ability to afford basic living expenses. Beyond charity care and writing off bad debt, are there other opportunities for hospitals and health systems to help patients afford the care that they deserve?

This white paper explores these challenges and how philanthropic aid from thousands of available patient assistance and social support programs can be optimized to reduce financial distress, advance health equity and provide better outcomes for patients and providers.