How to apply for Hospital Financial Assistance (Mercy Hospital Aurora) — Lawrence

Who it's for

Uninsured and underinsured residents of Lawrence County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at Mercy Hospital Aurora for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. In-county hospital at 500 Porter Avenue, Aurora, MO 65605, phone (417) 678-2122. Mercy grants financial assistance on household income, assets and family size against the 2026 Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. Level I (0-200% of poverty) is a 100% hospital and 100% physician discount; Level II (201-300% of poverty) is an 80% hospital and 70% physician discount. Level I income ranges shown include "$0 - $31,920" for a family of 1 and "$0 - $66,000" for a family of 4, and the page instructs to "add $5,680 to household income range for each additional person." Uninsured patients must first call the Medicaid eligibility screening team at 855-420-7900. One application covers both hospital and clinic balances.

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 (Mercy Hospital Aurora) — Lawrence. 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)