How to apply for Hospital Financial Assistance (SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital - St. Charles) — St. Charles

Who it's for

Uninsured and underinsured residents of St. Charles County can apply for financial assistance (charity care) at SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital - St. Charles for emergency and medically necessary care. Discounts are based on household size and income compared with the Federal Poverty Level. In-county hospital (https://www.ssmhealth.com/locations/st-louis/st-joseph-hospital-st-charles). SSM Health's financial-assistance page covers patients "without insurance, underinsured, ineligible for a government program, or otherwise unable to pay for medically necessary care"; no income thresholds are published on that page - patients are directed to financial counselors at 888-918-3512 (Mon-Thu 8am-7pm, Fri 8am-5pm) or billingquestions@ssmhealth.com. Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital (BJC) is the other major in-county option.

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 (SSM Health St. Joseph Hospital - St. Charles) — St. Charles. 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)