While we make every effort to keep costs as low as possible, some people may need financial assistance when it comes to paying medical bills. Find out how we can help.
ECMC’s Financial Assistance & Counseling office can help you sign up for government-funded programs including Family Health Plus, Child Health Plus, and Medicaid. Even if you don’t qualify for one of these programs, we can help you set up an affordable payment plan that works for you.
To make an appointment to discuss your financial assistance needs, please call us at (716) 898-5566, or just stop by our office on the First Floor Room 1101 at the ECMC Main Building.
ECMC Financial Assistance: Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to our most frequently asked questions below.
Who qualifies for Financial Assistance?
Financial Assistance is available for patients with limited incomes and no health insurance, or those individuals who are under-insured.
- Anyone in New York State or northern Pennsylvania who requires emergency services can receive care and obtain a discount if they meet the income guidelines.
- You may also receive a discount on non-emergency, medically necessary care at ECMC if you meet income limits.
- You will not be denied medically necessary care because you need financial assistance.
What are the income limits?
The amount of discount varies based on your gross income and the size of your family. Please refer to the income table supplied here for more information. (Download the ECMC Financial Assistance Income Guidelines »)
What if I do not meet the income limits?
If you cannot pay your bill, ECMC can assist you with payment plans.
Does my immigration status affect my application?
You may apply for a discount regardless of immigration status.
How do I apply?
You must first fill out an application form. (Download the ECMC Financial Assistance Application Form »)
As soon as we have proof of your income, we can process your application for a discount according to your income level.
You can apply for the discount before you have an appointment, when you come to the hospital to get care, or when the bill comes in the mail. You have up to 90 days after receiving services to submit your application.
Return in person or mail the completed forms to:
ECMC Corporation
Financial Counseling Services
462 Grider Street, Room 1101
Buffalo, NY 14215
Phone: (716) 898-5566
Business Hours: Monday–Friday | 7:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
Can someone help me apply?
Yes, free and confidential help is available. Call our Financial Assistance & Counseling Unit at (716) 898-5566, or drop by and visit our office in Room 1101 at the ECMC Main Building.
- If you do not speak English, we will provide an interpreter who will assist you in your own language.
- The financial assistance counselors can tell you if you qualify for free or low-cost insurance, such as Medicaid, Child Health Plus, and Family Health Plus. If they find you do not qualify for low-cost insurance, they will help you apply for a discount on the cost of your own medical services.
How will I know if I qualify?
ECMC will send you a letter within 30 days after completing and submitting documentation, telling you if you have been approved and the level of the discount received.
What if I receive a bill while I’m waiting?
You cannot be required to pay a hospital bill while your application for financial assistance is being considered.
If your application is turned down, we must tell you why in writing and must provide you with a way to appeal this decision to a higher level within the hospital.
What if I have a problem I can’t resolve?
You may call the New York State Department of Health complaint hotline at (800) 804-5447.
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