How to apply for Hospital Financial Assistance (MU Health Care - University Hospital (Columbia); no hospital operates in Cooper County) — Cooper

Who it's for

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Cooper County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at MU Health Care - University Hospital (Columbia); no hospital operates in Cooper County for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. Boonville's hospital (Cooper County Memorial, later I-70 Community Hospital's sister facility Pinnacle Regional Hospital) closed in 2020 and has not reopened; MU Health Care now operates a multi-specialty outpatient clinic on Jackson Road in Boonville (opened March 2023), with the nearest full-service hospitals in Columbia (~25 miles). MU Health Care financial assistance: 'Eligibility is based on income as a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level.' Bothwell Regional Health Center (Sedalia) is the alternative to the southwest.

What you'll need

• Proof of household income (tax return, pay stubs, or benefit award letter)
• Proof of family/household size
• Proof of residency and identification

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Hospital Financial Assistance (MU Health Care - University Hospital (Columbia); no hospital operates in Cooper County) — Cooper. 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 (tax return, pay stubs, or benefit award letter), proof of family/household size, proof of residency and 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

annual (reapply per policy)