CT HB05320

Hospitals must provide financial assistance to patients enrolled in SNAP or WIC programs with household income at or below 250% of federal poverty level, regardless of immigration status, effective October 1, 2024.

Hospitals cannot require patients to apply for Medicaid, Medicare, or other government coverage before receiving financial assistance unless the hospital has reasonable basis to believe the patient qualifies.

Financial assistance must cover all medically necessary services and supplies for eligible patients.

Health Systems Planning Unit must develop a uniform hospital financial assistance application by January 1, 2025, which hospitals must make available in admissions offices, emergency departments, discharge paperwork, and billing statements.

Hospitals must train staff and post signage in English and Spanish regarding availability of hospital bed funds and financial assistance programs, and collection agents must include assistance information in all bills and collection notices.