Contending with medical debt

On Behalf of | Jan 25, 2021 | blog, debt relief |

Medical debt is often accrued when people need healthcare services but are unable to pay for out-of-pocket costs associated with their care. Such debt can make it very difficult for individuals in New Jersey and elsewhere to reach their financial goals. Nevertheless, individuals contending with medical debt should keep a few things in mind.

Health insurance

If someone is dealing with medical debt, it is possible that his or her health insurance carrier denied coverage of certain claims. However, policyholders can usually appeal a decision of the insurer to deny coverage. In addition, it is important to pursue coverage against any health insurance offered by an employer or other source to cover a particular claim.

Negotiating with healthcare providers

Certain healthcare providers may be willing to reduce the amount of outstanding charges owed to them. Sometimes, healthcare providers can write off such reductions and enjoy tax benefits for this reduction. As a result, it pays to negotiate with healthcare providers whenever possible.

Friends and family

When dealing with medical debt, individuals should not be afraid to ask for help from family and friends. Individuals have had much success using online crowdfunding websites and other methods to receive assistance in paying off medical debt, and everyone impacted by medical debt should consider this option.

Bankruptcy

An experienced bankruptcy attorney will convey how bankruptcy is a powerful method to deal with medical debt. In bankruptcy, debtors can ask for a discharge of debt of all creditors listed in the bankruptcy paperwork so long as the proper process is followed. Of course, there are many consequences of filing for bankruptcy, and individuals are generally only allowed to file for bankruptcy every so often. As such, individuals considering this option should speak with a bankruptcy attorney to discuss their options.