Los Angeles County has launched a Medical Debt Relief Program, forgiving over $183 million in medical debt for more than 134,000 residents. This initiative aims to relieve the burden of medical debt, particularly for low-income families, and involves partnerships with organizations like Undue Medical Debt. Funded by an investment from the county and contributions from local health organizations, the program aspires to eliminate $500 million in debt, ultimately targeting $2 billion through further philanthropy. Officials stress that many residents face financial crises due to medical costs.
"In 2023 alone, Los Angeles County residents held over $2.9 billion in medical debt," said Holly Mitchell, Los Angeles County's 2nd District supervisor.
"Far too many residents are one medical bill away from fiscal catastrophe," said Holly Mitchell, highlighting the urgent need for debt relief.
The goal is to retire $500 million in medical debt for low-income residents, with plans to eliminate as much as $2 billion.
"Many are low-income families who even with a lifetime of work may never escape it," said Janice Hahn, recognizing the systemic nature of medical debt.
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