How and where do I get help paying hospital and doctor bills on social security disability benefits when they are threatening to sue us?

Igloo, I read that article and it turned my stomach.

Silverfoxx: How old is your friend? Does he have assets, like a home, that could be in jeopardy. In your opinion, why won't Medicaid help?

Give us a little more info.

Hill Burton Act now has less than 200 facilities nationwide - not all are hospitals some are clinics or old school long term care mental facilities . Some states have none.HRSA site has the list.

You should apply for Medicaid, if you haven't already. Even if you don't think you qualify, by applying it will give you time to work other avenues in that you can tell the creditor you are Medicaid pending.

You are not alone, just in yesterday's New York Times there is a scathing article
on Accretive Health who is essentially a debt collection company that hospitals have hired to do registration and debt collection. "Debt Collector Is Faulted for Tough Tactics in Hospitals" by Jessica Silver-Greenberg. Horrific.

Make an appointment to speak with the social worker at the facility where your friend is receiving treatment. The SW will be tuned in to help that may be available. And, many doctors will write off balances once they are informed that you qualify for 'charity care' at the hospital level.

Ask about hill Burton funds at the hospital. It's an old Bill that requires facilities receiving fed funds to provide a set amount of assistance to indigent patients. If really old, so may no longer bein effect now-worth a try?

Another might be CancerCare dot org - they helpin many ways, not sure if NY ONLY, or beyond? U can always send in a reg but small monthly payment-$5/MO? Call churches, MH PROVIDERS, public social workers, salvation army.
United Way. Good luck kim

I was going to suggest Medicaid, but you say that won't help. Is that because you don't qualify for Medicaid, or that you are on Medicaid but it doesn't apply to these bills, or what?