Financial Assistance
Focus on Your Health
The need for medical services can be a stressful time for you and your family. We understand that making decisions about the best treatment should be your primary concern, and we are here to assist with your questions about treatment costs and planning.
Staff is Available to Help with Financial Concerns
Brainerd Lakes Health has Financial Counselors to help resolve issues related to your medical bills. They can assist you in estimating what your insurance may cover and what your responsibilities for payment are, or they may be able to identify agencies or programs that could be helpful. Some of these programs are state sponsored (e.g. Minnesota Care, Medical Assistance, GAMC) while others are not. Another option may be to help you apply for free or low-cost health insurance.
Community Care
As a not-for-profit organization, serving the poor is part of the mission of Brainerd Lakes Health. As part of this mission, we offer a program called Community Care to assist those whose ability to pay is limited. Eligibility for Community Care is based on the Federal Income Poverty Guidelines, your income, assets, and needs.
Minnesota Uninsured Discount Program
The Minnesota Uninsured Discount Program is for patients who do not have insurance to cover medical care and have an annual income of under $125,000. With proof of income from our uninsured patients, Brainerd Lakes Health offers a percentage discount equal to that given to our most favored insurance contract.
Inform Us of Future Financial Difficulties
Once financial arrangements are made, it is important to let us know if you encounter trouble paying your bill. Federal and state laws require that hospitals seek full payment for services. This means unpaid bills may have to be turned over to a collections agency which could affect your credit status. By keeping us informed, we can work together to determine if the change in your financial status qualifies you for further assistance or if alternative arrangements can be made.