Medical bills shouldn’t keep you from getting the care you need. That’s why we offer financial assistance. In compliance with IRS Code 501(r), we:

  • Have a written financial assistance policy (FAP) and “plain language summary” of the policy, available to the public
  • Limit the amounts that can be charged for emergency or other medically necessary care to individuals who qualify for financial assistance, charging only “Amounts Generally Billed” for such care
  • Refrain from extraordinary collection actions before making reasonable efforts to determine whether an individual qualifies for financial assistance

Additionally, on July 1, 2016, Penn State Health introduced new financial assistance policies and processes that give eligible patients 100% financial assistance for medically necessary services.

Financial Assistance Policies

Click on the links below to read our FAP or plain language summary and related policies and guidelines.

Related policies and guidelines

Additional resources

In addition to standard financial assistance plans, we offer other services to help you pay your balance:

  • Financial counseling services: Penn State Health has enhanced its financial counseling services, adding additional financial counselors and customer service representatives to assist patients and consumers with a variety of new and existing programs.
  • AblePay Health: Penn State Health is a participating provider in AblePay Health, a no-cost program that can save up to 13% on your out-of-pocket medical expenses such as deductibles, coinsurance and co-pays.
  • Interest-free payments: We do not charge interest on health care balances or charge a fee for carrying a balance.
  • Prescription assistance: If you have a problem paying for prescription drugs, we can connect you with our pharmacy specialist. They can work with you to find equal, low-cost prescriptions or other pharmacy programs directly from drug companies.
  • Four Diamonds: This charity offers financial assistance for children who are diagnosed with cancer before the age of 18. The charity often assists with out-of-pocket medical expenses, lodging, and transportation.
  • No Surprises Act: Your rights and protections against surprise medical bills.