Financial Assistance Program at Rochester Regional Health: A Model for Patient-Centered Care

Rochester Regional Health Leads the Way in Compassionate Medical Billing Practices

In a world where medical bills can often lead to aggressive collection tactics and financial ruin for patients, Rochester Regional Health in upstate New York is taking a different approach. The nonprofit health system has made a commitment to bar all aggressive collection activities, ensuring that patients who are unable to pay their bills won’t face lawsuits, wage garnishments, or other punitive measures.

Financial counselor Jolynn Mungenast is on the front lines of this effort, working with patients to navigate health insurance options, financial aid, and payment plans. She understands the fear and anxiety that many patients face when they can’t afford their medical bills and strives to provide them with compassionate support.

Rochester Regional’s decision to prioritize patient care over aggressive collections has not only benefited patients but has also had a positive impact on the health system’s bottom line. By focusing on enrolling patients in health insurance, expanding financial assistance programs, and offering interest-free payment plans, Rochester Regional has been able to reduce the need for costly collection efforts.

The health system’s approach has been praised by advocates for its commitment to rebuilding trust with patients and promoting health equity. By eliminating aggressive collection tactics, Rochester Regional is setting a new standard for compassionate medical billing practices that prioritize patient care above all else.

As more hospitals across the country grapple with the issue of medical debt, Rochester Regional Health serves as a shining example of how a commitment to patient-centered care can lead to better outcomes for both patients and health systems.