Financial Assistance

When you or a loved one faces a medical emergency, the last thing you should have to worry about is money. 

At Banner Health, we are committed to making sure every patient gets the emergency care they need, no matter their ability to pay. If you are uninsured, underinsured or medically indigent, Banner Health provides information and assistance to navigate the financial options you may be eligible for. 

Why emergency care comes first

Emergencies can be stressful. Chest pain, trouble breathing, sudden injury or a high fever can’t wait. Banner Health emergency departments are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for patients of all ages.

When you arrive, you will receive a medical screening to determine the seriousness of your condition. If you need emergency treatment, you will receive it right away. This care is never delayed for questions about insurance, payment or financial status. 

You will never be turned away because of money or insurance. This follows a federal law called the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA). By law, hospitals must provide a medical screening exam and stabilizing treatment in an emergency. That care cannot be delayed or denied because of your financial situation. Your health and safety are always our priority.

After your emergency visit, you may receive a bill for services. That’s when our financial assistance options can help.

Banner Health financial assistance programs

We know that medical bills can be overwhelming, especially after an emergency. Banner Health offers several forms of support to patients who qualify:

1. Basic financial assistance

Patients with limited income may qualify for help covering part or all of their emergency bills. Assistance is based on federal poverty guidelines and considers your household income and family size. In some cases, the entire costs of care may be covered.

2. Catastrophic assistance

If you do not meet the income limits for basic assistance but your bill is higher than your income, you may still qualify for help. This program is designed for patients who experience very high medical costs that would create a severe financial burden.

3. Uninsured discounts

If you do not have health insurance, you may receive a discount off the total charges for your ER visit. This reduces the amount you owe and makes care more affordable. 

4. Payment plans

Even if you do not qualify for financial assistance, Banner Health offers flexible payment plans. These allow you to pay your bill in smaller monthly amounts that fit your budget. Our goal is to work with you so that the cost of care does not prevent you from getting the treatment you need.

Availability of certain options may vary by location and the type of service and care you receive. For questions, call Banner Health Patient Financial Services at 888-264-2127.

Who can get help

You may qualify if:

• Your household income is at or near the federal poverty guidelines for your household size.
• Your family size and income meet the program rules.
• You are underinsured (your insurance still leaves high out-of-pocket costs) or you have a short-term hardship.
• Banner Health may also consider other hardship reasons, like sudden job loss, large unexpected expenses or special family situations.

We use federal poverty guidelines and local program rules to make our decisions. If you think you qualify, we encourage you to apply even if you have partial insurance. 

Learn more about how to help pay your bill.

What costs may be covered?

Financial assistance may cover some or all of your hospital charges for emergency care and related services billed by Banner Health. Coverage and discounts vary by type of service, your income and program rules. It does not usually cover elective or cosmetic services. 

Our financial counselors can provide more detailed explanations. 

How to apply for financial assistance

1. Ask at the hospital: When you are discharged from the ER, ask a financial counselor or patient registration staff about assistance programs.
2. Fill out an application: You can fill out a financial assistance application online or print and complete it. Include your household information and income details. Keep copies of recent pay stubs, tax returns or other proof of income. Applications are available in English, Spanish and other languages. 
3. Send the application: You can send it to Banner Health Patient Financial Services by mail, email or fax. Contact info and mailing address appear on the form.
4. Keep records: Save copies of applications, letters and any proof of income you submit.
5. Call for help: If you need help completing the form, call us at 888-264-2127. Staff can answer questions and help you apply. Hours and options are listed on Banner’s billing pages.
6. Communicate: If you cannot pay your bill, do not ignore it. Contact us to discuss options. 

Applications are available in multiple languages, and translation services are provided if needed. 

Frequently asked questions

Will my emergency care be denied if I can’t pay?

No. You will always receive emergency treatment first, regardless of your ability to pay.

Do I need insurance to apply for assistance?

No. Both insured and uninsured patients may qualify for financial assistance.

Will applying for assistance hurt my credit?

No. Asking for help will not affect your credit score. If you qualify, it may reduce the amount you owe.

Can I still set up a payment plan if I don’t qualify?

Yes. Flexible payment options are available to all patients. 

Getting the help you need

Medical emergencies are stressful enough without worrying about finances. Remember: Your health and safety always come first. Banner Health is here to support you, during your ER visit and after.

If you have questions about financial assistance, contact our Patient Financial Services team or visit the Banner Health financial assistance webpage.