Medical collections

they sure can. i would explain to them that the situation is hard with so many medical bills right now that youre trying to pay off at the same time, they might be understanding about it. Communication at this point is very important--explain that you have every intention of paying these off, but you need the time because you have so many to pay at the same time. they may not care, but they might. its worth a try. it may be enough for them to realize that pushing you will not get them anywhere. I also believe that at this point, medical providers do not want to take further action like hiring collectors or filing suits because of the time and cost involved. They know that the economy sucks and they know that a lot of people are having a hard time with money right now. So they may be more willing to let you slide a while like this than they might be in better economic times.

Has the person who committed the assult been criminally prosecuted?? You could also civilly prosecute them for damages.

What state are you in? There are some states, such as California, that have programs for victims of violent crimes. In California, the Victims of Violent Crime Act will pay for many medical bills, including counseling. I would check with financial counselors at the hospital where your husband got treatment, since they would most likely have info. You will probably need copies of police reports, along with pertinent medical information. Good luck and let us know what happens.

I don't know your financial situation, but there are some hardship programs and also indigent programs, but you have to be able to prove that you need these financially. My brother had to do this after his wife had a stroke and their bills were in the hundreds of thousands, and still continue to need care.

He did get an intent to sue over some of these bills, but went to the hospital and also Department of Human Services to see what could be done. Good luck- let us know what happens..karen

I had to have surgery in the summer of 2007--I did not have insurance. I thought that my insurance was in effect at the time, but later found out it was terminated. I was paying the hospital a certain amount each month, but I then had some financial problems and had to stop.

They sued me and started garnishing 25% of my wages in October 2008. I now found out I could have received charity assistance, but no one told me until after the fact.

This basically ruined my life. Don't let it happen to you. Check with the hospital and see if they have an assistance for financial hardship.