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

Who it's for

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Howard County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at MU Health Care - University Hospital (Columbia); no hospital operates in Howard County for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. Howard County (Fayette) has no in-county hospital; the nearest full-service hospitals are in Columbia, Boone County (~25 miles from Fayette) — MU Health Care's University Hospital and Boone Health. MU Health Care financial assistance: 'Eligibility is based on income as a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level.' Moberly Regional Medical Center is the alternative to the northeast.

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 Howard County) — Howard. 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)