Medical Bills and Credit Reports

The US government established strict laws to ensure that all patients receive medical treatment regardless of their ability to pay.  But for many patients, access to care comes with a catch.

When a medical debt is sent to collections, it stays on the patient's credit report for 7 years, regardless of how quickly the patient pays off the debt.  This leaves many patients - including those that paid their bills in full - with damaged credit reports that could cost them a job or a promotion.  A recent report shows that medical bills prompt over 60 percent of bankruptcies in the U.S.

This system puts many workers in a trap: they lack insurance or funds to pay for medical care and are forced into debt, but may then be denied a job due to that debt.

Job applicants who have suffered a trip to the hospital - or have cared for a family member in the hospital - should not be placed at a disadvantage in the hiring process.