Crouse Hospital understands that patients may be faced with a difficult financial situation when they receive medical bills for their hospital care. To meet the needs of our patients, we offer a Financial Assistance Program that includes a process to provide patients with assistance in applying for publicly sponsored New York State health insurance programs and offering charity care discounts.
If you have questions about Crouse Hospital’s Financial Assistance Program please contact 315/470-5664 or 315/470-7030.
Charity Care
Crouse Hospital offers charity care discounts to patients who receive medically necessary care at no charge or reduced charge when they meet eligibility requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Q: |
When can I apply for assistance? |
| A: |
You can download an application or contact our Financial Counseling department at 315/470-8765. |
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| Q: |
How is eligibility determined? |
| A: |
Applicants for charity care may be screened for Medicaid eligibility by a Crouse Hospital Financial Counselor. Charity care applications must be completed and submitted with proof of income and assets. Self-employed applicants must provide a copy of the previous year’s tax return. Eligibility is determined by measuring the household size and income against current poverty level income guidelines established by the Federal government. |
Charity Care Discount Guidelines
| Household Size |
Maximum Household Income for Discount |
| 1 |
$32,490 |
| 2 |
$43,710 |
| 3 |
$54,930 |
| 4 |
$66,150 |
| 5 |
$77,370 |
| 6 |
$88,590 |
| 7 |
$99,810 |
| 8 |
$111,030 |
| Each Extra Person |
Add $3,740 |
| Q: |
What providers and services are covered under this program? |
| A: |
Consideration for charity care will apply to eligible services that are considered essential health services provided, either as an inpatient or outpatient, and billed under Crouse Hospital. Charity care does not cover convenience items (such as telephone and television service), cosmetic services or any services provided and billed by a private, interpreting physician group.
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| Q: |
Are there limits to eligibility based on residency? |
| A: |
Charity care discounts are available to patients who are residents of New York State only. For uninsured patients residing outside of New York State and who receive services at Crouse Hospital a self-pay discount of 30% off charges is available. |
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| Q: |
What happens after I apply? |
| A: |
A determination will be based on information provided. You will be notified in writing of the determination.
- 100% approval or a small nominal fee
- Partial approval: Those who have been accepted and who have income between 101% and 300% of the federal poverty guidelines will receive a partial sliding scale discount based on the reimbursement rate of the highest volume commercial payor.
- Denial: Denials are based on information provided by the patient and will be specific as to what Charity Care eligibility the patient did not meet.
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| Q: |
If I’m responsible for a balance, may I make payment arrangements? |
| A: |
Certainly – Crouse Hospital accepts payment arrangements. A hospital representative will assist you in the payment arrangements to be set up based on your income and the balance of the bills. |
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| Q: |
If I have health insurance may I still qualify for any type of discount? |
| A: |
Yes. If approval is made any discount awarded will be applied to balances after the insurance payment has been received. |
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| Q: |
Are translator services available? |
| A: |
Yes, translator services are available to assist with the application process. To request translator assistance please call
315/470-7030.
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| Q: |
How can I contact someone with general questions or help with completing my application? |
| A: |
For help with the charity care application process please contact a representative at 315/470-8765. We are here to assist you any way we can. |
To apply for charity care, please fill out an application and send to:
Crouse Hospital
Attn: Financial Counseling
736 Irving Avenue
Syracuse, NY 13210