How to apply for OSF HealthCare Saint James-John W. Albrecht Medical Center (Pontiac) — Financial Assistance (Livingston County) in Illinois

Who it's for

Livingston County hospital safety net: OSF HealthCare Saint James-John W. Albrecht Medical Center (Pontiac) is the county's anchor — a nonprofit OSF HealthCare hospital. It offers financial-assistance / Community Care programs with free or discounted care for low-income and uninsured patients. DISTINCTIVE to Illinois: state law (the Hospital Uninsured Patient Discount Act + Fair Patient Billing Act) REQUIRES hospitals to provide financial assistance — uninsured patients with income at or below 125% (rural and critical-access hospitals) or 200% (other hospitals) of the Federal Poverty Level get free care, and discounts reach up to 300% (rural) or 600% (other hospitals). Most Illinois hospitals have a robust charity-care policy as a result. Apply online or in person at the hospital. For questions, call an OSF patient services representative toll-free at 800-421-5700. The hospital main line is 815-842-2828.

What you'll need

• Proof of household income
• Proof of Livingston County / Illinois residency
• Photo identification
• Proof of uninsured status or insurance gap
• Hospital bill or pre-treatment estimate

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about OSF HealthCare Saint James-John W. Albrecht Medical Center (Pontiac) — Financial Assistance (Livingston County). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of household income, proof of Livingston County / Illinois residency, photo identification — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Renewals

per-encounter or annual