Medical debt in Los Angeles County creates a heavy financial burden, totaling $2.9 billion, affecting 1 in 10 residents. The impact is most severe on low-income, minority communities and those with chronic conditions, potentially leading to food insecurity and healthcare access issues.
The ordinance passed by the L.A. County Board of Supervisors allows the Department of Public Health to examine patient medical debt data, unveiling secretive hospital practices to assist those struggling with high unpaid bills. Collecting data aims to identify errors, missed financial assistance opportunities, and prevent patients from incurring debt for healthcare.
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