Charleston County residents unable to pay for their hospital care when hospitalization is necessary.

People who:

• Have Medicaid
• Have Medicare Part A Benefits
• Have medical insurance that will pay 80% or more of the hospital bill.
• Are in governmental institution (state hospital or correctional facility). Detainees awaiting trial may apply.

As early as 30 days before the date you are to enter the hospital, while you are in the hospital or within one year after your hospitalization.

You need to apply for assistance each time you enter the hospital.

• You must be a resident of South Carolina
• You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien
• Your gross family income must be no more than 200% of the federal poverty guidelines
• Your property, bank account(s) and other resources cannot exceed a certain limit

It is the maximum income a family can have and receive help from certain government programs. In 2011 the following income guide lines were set:

Federal Poverty Level
Effective March 1, 2011

For families of more than eight people, add $3,820 for each additional member.

Services received as an inpatient of the hospital are covered when medically necessary, such as room rate, dietary amenities, nursing and medication.

When you enter the hospital because of a medical emergency, the hospital will take your application and send it to the county in which you live.

Your bill will be paid in full if your family's income is below 100% and 200% of the federal poverty level. The amount that you will be asked to pay on your hospital care depends on your family's income.