How to apply for Erlanger Health Financial Assistance (Charity Care)
Erlanger Health — Chattanooga
Who it's for
Bledsoe County has no in-county acute-care hospital. Erlanger Health in Chattanooga is a public academic health system that serves Southeast Tennessee, including Pikeville and Bledsoe County. Erlanger offers charity care and discounted care based on family income and assets. In 2025, households at or below 204% of the federal poverty level qualified for free care and those at or below 322% for discounted care. Financial counselors help at 423-778-9805.
Cross-county: Bledsoe County residents are served by Erlanger Health in Chattanooga. Charity care is income-based (2025 basis: free at or below 204% FPL, discount at or below 322%); each application is reviewed, so this shows as may-qualify.
People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.
Find my benefitsWhat you'll need
- Proof of family income (recent tax return or pay stubs)
- Household size and information on assets/resources
- Any current medical bills
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 423-778-9805
What to say when you call
"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Erlanger Health Financial Assistance (Charity Care). 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 family income (recent tax return or pay stubs), household size and information on assets/resources, any current medical bills — 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 application (240-day window)
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.