For many Americans, every trip to the doctor is a nerve-wracking experience. Will the doctor diagnose them with something serious? Can they afford treatment? If they go into debt to pay their bills, how long will they struggle to fulfill their payments?
If you struggle with medical debt, bankruptcy could give you answers to the difficult questions you face.
1. Can bankruptcy give me relief from my medical bills?
As an individual, you can file for either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Filing for bankruptcy could help relieve the burden of your debts, including medical bills, through discharge or through a more manageable payment plan. It can be helpful to speak to an attorney about your debt to determine which type of bankruptcy is the best fit for your situation.
2. Can I still see my doctor after discharging medical debt in bankruptcy?
You have built a relationship with your primary care physician, and you want to continue seeing a doctor that you trust after your debt is discharged. While the Emergency Medical Treatment and Active Labor Act prevents hospitals from turning you away in an emergency because you cannot pay, bankruptcy could impact your relationship with your doctor.
3. Can I still receive government benefits?
If you have a medical condition that limits your ability to work, you may wonder if bankruptcy will cut you off from the support you rely on. Thankfully, federal bankruptcy law protects your ability to receive government benefits like social security payments. These benefits will be counted as part of your income.
For those struggling with medical bills, bankruptcy could be a path to relief. If you have questions about how bankruptcy can help relieve the burden of debt, speak to an experienced bankruptcy attorney.
