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

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 through the hospital's Financial Resource Center: the Financial Assistance cover letter, application and policy summary are posted on the Financial Assistance page (https://www.upstate.edu/hospital/patients-families/billing/financial-resources.php). Call Patient Financial Services at 315-464-8050 for payment arrangements or help with the application, or 315-464-5026 for further information about the Financial Assistance Program; the hospital's billing FAQ says a written decision with the percent of reduction follows within 30 days of a completed application.

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