How to apply for UPMC Cole (Coudersport, formerly Charles Cole Memorial) — Financial Assistance (Potter County) in Pennsylvania

UPMC Cole (Coudersport, Potter County) — formerly Charles Cole Memorial Hospital, part of UPMC — is Potter County's principal hospital, a critical access hospital serving PA's rural northern tier plus cross-border NY (Allegany County via Wellsville). Tertiary referrals route within UPMC (UPMC Wellsboro in Tioga County, UPMC Hamot in Erie).

Who it's for

Potter County's principal community hospital safety net is UPMC Cole (Coudersport) — formerly Charles Cole Memorial Hospital, now part of UPMC, so UPMC's Financial Assistance Policy applies: no charge at or below 300% FPL, and discounted rates from 301% to 400% FPL. Distinct from Potter TX. Cross-border NY referrals (Allegany NY). Note: PA Medicaid ABD is STRICT (~$989/month), so many low-income seniors fall above Medicaid and rely on hospital FAPs. Apply at the hospital's financial counseling office or at https://www.upmc.com/patients-visitors/paying-bill/services. Phone: 814-274-9300 (UPMC Cole main line).

Potter: UPMC Cole (Coudersport, formerly Charles Cole Memorial) is Potter PA's principal hospital. Distinct from Potter TX. Cross-border NY referrals (Allegany NY).

People who qualify for one senior program often qualify for others. See everything you may qualify for — free, no SSN, about five minutes.

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What you'll need

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

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 814-274-9300

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about UPMC Cole (Coudersport, formerly Charles Cole Memorial) — Financial Assistance (Potter 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 Potter 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

Official source →Last verified · October 12, 2026

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Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.