How to apply for SUNY Upstate Medical University Hospital — Financial Assistance (Onondaga County)

Who it's for

Onondaga County's principal community hospital safety net is SUNY Upstate Medical University Hospital (Syracuse) — academic Level 1 trauma + tertiary referral for Central NY; St. Joseph's Health (Syracuse, Trinity Health) and Crouse Health (Syracuse, independent) are the other major Onondaga hospitals. The Financial Assistance Program covers uninsured/underinsured residents — sliding scale typically discounts charges up to 100% at the lower income brackets with reduced rates above. Note: NY Medicaid ABD's ~138% FPL gate means many Central NY seniors qualify for Medicaid and would access these hospitals through Medicaid rather than FAP. Apply at the hospital's financial counseling office or at https://www.upstate.edu/hospital/healthcare/billing/financial-assistance.php. Phone: 315-464-5540.

What you'll need

• Proof of household income
• Proof of Onondaga County / NY residency
• Photo identification
• Proof of uninsured status or insurance gap
• Hospital bill or pre-treatment estimate

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about SUNY Upstate Medical University Hospital — Financial Assistance (Onondaga County). 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, proof of onondaga county / ny residency, photo 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

per-encounter or annual