How to apply for Forest County Referral Safety Net — UPMC Northwest + Penn Highlands Clarion + Penn Highlands DuBois (Forest County) in Pennsylvania

Who it's for

Forest County's principal community hospital safety net is Forest County (PA's second-smallest, ~7K) has NO HOSPITAL in-county. Distinct from Forest TX (no such county). Referrals route to UPMC Northwest (Venango), Penn Highlands Clarion, or Penn Highlands DuBois. Each system operates a Financial Assistance Program (sliding scale typically to 300-400% FPL). Note: PA Medicaid ABD is STRICT (~$989/month). PA Wilds hospital landscape: Penn Highlands Healthcare dominates NCPA (DuBois flagship + Elk + St. Marys + Clarion + Brookville); Upper Allegheny cross-border (Bradford PA + Olean NY); UPMC + Geisinger reach in extremities (UPMC Lock Haven Clinton, Geisinger CMC accessible to Susquehanna). Apply at the hospital's financial counseling office or at https://www.phhealthcare.org/patients-visitors/financial-assistance-program. Phone: 814-755-3531.

What you'll need

• Proof of household income
• Proof of Forest County / PA 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 Forest County Referral Safety Net — UPMC Northwest + Penn Highlands Clarion + Penn Highlands DuBois (Forest 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 Forest County / PA 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