How to apply for Hospital Financial Assistance (Merit Health Wesley) — Lamar in Mississippi

Who it's for

Merit Health Wesley, on Hardy Street in Hattiesburg (Lamar County), has a Financial Assistance Program for patients who are uninsured, underinsured, not eligible for a government program, or otherwise unable to pay. Its Charity Care Discount is based on multiples of the U.S. Federal Poverty Guidelines, using supporting documents that verify your income. Apply with the Financial Assistance Program application at the time of service or any time during your billing cycle. Patients who do not qualify may still get an Uninsured Discount or, if the bill is very large compared with income, a Catastrophic Care Discount. The hospital also offers free eligibility screening for programs such as Medicaid at 800-353-1380. Call the hospital at 601-268-8000 and ask for Customer Service or a Financial Counselor.

What you'll need

• Financial Assistance Program (FAP) Application
• Supporting documentation to verify income

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Hospital Financial Assistance (Merit Health Wesley) — Lamar. 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 financial Assistance Program (FAP) Application, supporting documentation to verify income — 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)