US Medical bill problem for UK holidaymaker?
alfie1116 asked:
Whilst on holiday in New York 3 months ago, my wife suffered a seizure. My holiday insurance turned down my claim as they say it is a pre-existing medical condition. I have just received a bill for over $18,000 which I can no-way afford. If I am forced to pay, I will lose everything, my home, my car and my business. Is there any way that I may avoid the bill. I have heard from some sources that hospital may write off the debt as I live in the UK and is difficult for them to chase me for the payment - or if I ignore any letters or any contact from the hospital they can not legally force me to pay as I am not a resident of the US. I’m very worried…any answer would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your time.
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Whilst on holiday in New York 3 months ago, my wife suffered a seizure. My holiday insurance turned down my claim as they say it is a pre-existing medical condition. I have just received a bill for over $18,000 which I can no-way afford. If I am forced to pay, I will lose everything, my home, my car and my business. Is there any way that I may avoid the bill. I have heard from some sources that hospital may write off the debt as I live in the UK and is difficult for them to chase me for the payment - or if I ignore any letters or any contact from the hospital they can not legally force me to pay as I am not a resident of the US. I’m very worried…any answer would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your time.
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Tags: Chase, Insurance, Medical Condition
February 19th, 2009 at 5:29 am
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You are responsible, & they can make you pay for the services. Your best bet is to set up a payment plan, & make smaller monthly payments & attempt to pay the debt. They may write off a portion of the debt.
US private health insurance would pay for our stay @ a UK facility for urgent or emergent care. If you only purchased travel insurance, & have no actual private, non-travel medical insurance you are liable… I would start trying to force the insurance plan to pay.