The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB) is committed to providing healthcare services to all patients, including those with financial constraints. The Utmb Indigent Care Program is designed to offer financial assistance to eligible patients who are unable to afford the full cost of their medical care. This program ensures that patients receive the necessary medical services while alleviating some of the financial burden associated with healthcare costs.
Who is Eligible for the UTMB Indigent Care Program?
The UTMB Indigent Care Program is available to current UTMB patients who require financial assistance for services already received at UTMB facilities. It’s important to note specific eligibility criteria:
- Current UTMB Patients: The program is for patients who have already received services from UTMB.
- Insurance Limitations: Patients with third-party insurance are generally not eligible, with the exception of those with traditional Medicare. Individuals eligible for other third-party programs like Medicaid or County Indigent Health Programs (CIHCP) are also typically not eligible.
- Texas Residency: Applicants must be residents of Texas to qualify for the program.
- Elective Services: Patients seeking treatment for certain elective, non-emergent procedures or outpatient services are usually considered full-pay patients and are expected to make payments in full at the time of service.
For those unsure about their eligibility, the Financial Counseling Office at (409) 772-6464 is available to provide detailed information about the application process and specific circumstances.
Discount Levels: How Much Assistance Can You Receive?
The UTMB Indigent Care Program offers different levels of financial assistance based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Qualified applicants may receive significant discounts on their outstanding medical balances:
- 100% Charity Discount: Applicants whose income and assets are below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines may qualify for a 100% charity discount on their medical balances. This means eligible patients may have their entire balance covered by the program.
- 75% Charity Discount: For applicants with income and assets between 200% and 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, a 75% charity discount is available. This significantly reduces the patient’s responsibility for their medical bills.
- Up to 50% Discount for Self-Pay Patients: Self-pay patients, who do not have third-party coverage and do not qualify for the charity care discounts mentioned above, but whose income is at or above 400% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, may still qualify for a discount of up to 50% on services received.
These tiered discounts ensure that the UTMB Indigent Care Program provides meaningful financial relief to a wide range of patients with varying financial needs.
Applying for the UTMB Indigent Care Program
The Financial Counseling Office at UTMB manages all applications for the Indigent Care Program. To determine eligibility, the office conducts an interview and screening process. This process helps assess individual financial situations and determine the level of discount for which a patient may qualify.
To learn more about the application process and to apply for the UTMB Indigent Care Program, please contact the Financial Counseling Office directly:
- Phone: (409) 772-6464
- Email: [email protected]
UTMB is dedicated to working with patients to ensure access to quality healthcare. The UTMB Indigent Care Program is a vital resource for patients facing financial challenges, providing a pathway to manage medical expenses and receive the care they need. For more comprehensive details, you can Download ‘A Patient’s Guide to UTMB Health Charity Care and Financial Assistance’. Contact the Financial Counseling Office today to explore your options and get the assistance you deserve.
