Where to Get Help Paying Medical Bills in Kentucky

Medical bills can be overwhelming, even if you have Medicare or other insurance. Whether it’s a hospital stay, a surprise lab charge, or a specialist you didn’t even know was out-of-network, the costs can add up fast. For seniors on a fixed income, this can feel impossible to manage.

The good news is that you are not alone. There are real programs in Kentucky that can help reduce or even forgive part of what you owe. Here’s where to turn when the bill feels too big to face.

1. Ask About Hospital Financial Assistance (Charity Care)

Most hospitals in Kentucky are required to offer financial assistance to patients who meet certain income limits. This is often called charity care or financial hardship assistance. In many cases, even if you have insurance, you may still qualify for a reduction or full forgiveness of your bill.

What to do:

• Call the billing department and ask for a financial assistance application

• Be ready to share basic income information and details about your expenses

• Don’t wait too long, many programs have deadlines after your visit

Tip: If your bill is from a doctor who works in the hospital but not for the hospital, you may need to ask their office about help separately.

2. Apply for the Kentucky Hospital Care Program

Some low-income seniors may qualify for the Kentucky Hospital Care Program, which can help cover hospital bills if you meet income and residency guidelines. Not all hospitals participate, but it’s worth checking if yours does.

To learn more, contact your hospital’s billing office or your local Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office.

3. Contact the Medical Provider Directly

Whether it’s a family doctor, a specialist, or a lab, many medical offices are willing to work with patients who ask for help. They may offer:

• Payment plans that break the total into smaller monthly payments

• Prompt pay discounts if you can pay a portion quickly

• Hardship programs for those with financial need

Always ask, many providers would rather work something out with you than send the bill to collections.

4. Use a Medical Billing Advocate

If your bill seems too high or confusing, a medical billing advocate can help review it for errors, overcharges, or services you didn’t receive. Some advocates work for a fee, but there are also nonprofit organizations that offer help for free.

Start by contacting your local Area Agency on Aging. They may be able to connect you with a trusted advocate.

5. Check for Medicaid Eligibility

Even if you didn’t qualify for Medicaid in the past, a change in income, medical needs, or living situation might make you eligible now. Medicaid may cover backdated medical expenses for up to three months prior to approval.

Apply at benefind.ky.gov or call the DCBS office for help with the application.

6. Talk to Your Local SHIP Counselor

The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free, unbiased help for seniors navigating Medicare. They can help you understand your benefits, review your bills, and explore savings programs.

Find your local SHIP office by calling 1-877-293-7447 or visiting lablaw.org/SHIP

Lastly, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when a medical bill lands in your mailbox, but don’t ignore it. There may be options to lower the amount, set up a manageable plan, or even have part of the balance forgiven. The key is to ask — and to ask early.

Kentuckians take care of each other, and there’s no shame in asking for help when it comes to your health. You’ve paid in, worked hard, and deserve support when you need it most.