Published: February 2, 2023
Norton Healthcare* has announced changes to its financial assistance program. The changes are intended to increase access to health care by alleviating financial stress that often serves as a barrier and prevents individuals from seeking care.
Previously, families were eligible for Norton Healthcare’s financial assistance program if their household income was equal to or less than 300% of the federal poverty guidelines. With these changes, that income level has increased to 350% of the federal poverty guidelines. For example, a family of four with a combined household income of up to $105,000 now could be eligible for financial assistance.
Additionally, individuals now can apply in advance to participate in the expanded financial assistance program. By completing the qualification process ahead of time, it will remove the barrier that some experience when asked to discuss financial status matters at the point of care.
Previously, families would complete an application after receiving treatment, including after an emergency or serious medical condition. Now this can be done before there is a crisis or need for medical treatment. Community members can apply at any time online or can request a paper copy of the application, which is available in several languages. Once approved, the application will be valid for one year. Those taking part in the program can re-apply every year.
“By providing this proactive approach to our Financial Assistance Program, families across the region can put their health first without the burden of worrying about the financial aspects at the point of care,” said Russell F. Cox, president and CEO, Norton Healthcare. “Everyone in our community deserves access to quality health care. We are committed to creating initiatives and programs that remove barriers and work toward eliminating challenges for those seeking care.”
Those preapproved for financial assistance will receive a verification letter. Residents of Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Illinois and Tennessee can be preapproved for financial assistance for an emergency or medically necessary care. Eligible families can apply for assistance, even if they haven’t been to a Norton Healthcare facility in the past and regardless of whether they have insurance. Norton Healthcare will continue to assist uninsured patients in applying for Medicaid with the help of a third party.
For those with income that excludes them from this program, Norton Healthcare has additional resources available to financially assist patients.
If an individual believes they are eligible for the financial assistance program, they can apply here. Community members also can call (502) 479-6300 to request a hard copy of the application.
*Norton Healthcare includes Norton Children’s Hospital and Norton Children’s Medical Center.