What Do I Do if I Can’t Pay My Ambulance Bill?

Posted on May 15, 2015 at 12:00pm by

In an America where ambulance rides can cost almost $50,000, it is unsurprising that medical bills have become the number one financial stressor in the country. If you are going to be involved in an accident, hope that you do not require a helicopter for transport to the hospital.

An Arizona man was left with a $47,182 bill after requiring a helicopter transport to the hospital, and his insurance would not pay any of it. The medical bills from the ‘air ambulance’ ride cost more than a years’ salary for the man. Even though he fought the bill for two years, he has remained unable to pay it.

Another patient owed $21,000 when his wife was brought to the hospital by helicopter. After being unable to pay the bill, the company responsible for transport filed a judgement and was able to put a lien on his house.

Can Filing for Bankruptcy Help Me Get Rid of Medical Bills?

Earlier this week, we wrote a blog piece on medical bills and wage garnishments, but that is one of several negative outcomes associated with unpaid medical debts.

Air ambulances are common across the country, but even normal ambulance rides can be immensely expensive. Depending on the location and the length of the trip, ambulance rides can cost $350 to $2,000. For some people, that amount might be too high to pay.

For people that are financially stretched thin from other expenses, an extra payment of several hundred a month can be impossible.

Failing to pay bills can look poorly on credit ratings, but there are more severe consequences. Lawsuits, liens against property and other forms of retaliation can await former hospital patients who are unable to pay bills.

Depending on the circumstances, filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy could put a stop on collection activity and possibly discharge some of the debt. Discussing options with an experienced bankruptcy attorney can be an option in clearing or reducing tens of thousands in medical bills.

The Sader Law FirmKansas City Bankruptcy Attorneys