Medical Debt: How It Impacts Under-Resourced Communities

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In this episode of The Healthy Project Podcast, host Corey Dion Lewis dives deep into the often-overlooked topic of medical debt and how it disproportionately affects under-resourced communities. Corey is joined by Jenifer Bosco, a Senior Attorney at the National Consumer Law Center (NCLC) and co-author of the Model Medical Debt Protection Act. Together, they explore the causes of medical debt, the role of healthcare systems and insurance companies, and practical solutions that can protect vulnerable individuals from crippling financial burdens.

Jenifer shares actionable insights on how to navigate the healthcare system, what hospitals and policymakers can do to alleviate medical debt, and how civic engagement can empower individuals to demand change. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the deep-rooted complexities of medical debt and what can be done to bring about health equity and financial relief.

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Show Notes:

00:00 - Intro: Corey welcomes listeners and introduces the topic of medical debt and its impact on underserved communities.
01:14 - Guest Introduction: Meet Jenifer Bosco, Senior Attorney at the National Consumer Law Center, who shares her work on financial and medical debt advocacy.
02:35 - Causes of Medical Debt: Jenifer explains the common causes of medical debt, from rising healthcare costs to lack of insurance and high out-of-pocket expenses.
05:22 - Impact of Medical Debt on Access to Healthcare: Discussing how the fear of medical bills can prevent people from seeking necessary healthcare services.
07:39 - The Role of Healthcare Systems: Jenifer talks about what hospitals can do to reduce the burden of medical debt, including financial assistance programs and better debt collection practices.
10:18 - Importance of Financial Assistance Policies: Understanding the need for more accessible and transparent financial aid options for low-income patients.
15:47 - The Role of Insurance Companies: Corey and Jenifer discuss how underinsurance and high-deductible health plans contribute to medical debt, and the role of expanding Medicaid.
19:33 - Empowering Communities: Civic engagement strategies to help communities advocate for better healthcare policies and protections from medical debt collection.
24:03 - The Future of Medical Debt Reform: Jenifer shares her perspective on how ongoing reforms and consumer protection laws can shape a more equitable healthcare system.
25:22 - How to Connect: Resources and contact information for Jenifer Bosco and the NCLC for those looking to learn more or get involved.

Resources Mentioned:

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