Article Summary –
Debbie Smith, a North Carolinian burdened by medical debt, highlights the impact of debt on basic living needs. Her story underscores the urgency for debt forgiveness programs. North Carolina’s initiative, supported by Gov. Cooper and VP Harris, aims to relieve low-income residents of $4 billion in medical debt.
Debbie Smith’s Struggle with Medical Debt in North Carolina
Debbie Smith, a 69-year-old from Alamance County, is one of 3 million North Carolinians facing medical debt challenges. She shared her experiences with Cardinal & Pine, highlighting the impact of medical bills and her hopes for relief.
Last October, Smith, leaving an abusive marriage, was transported by ambulance to Alamance Regional Medical Center. Her psychiatrist had advised her to leave her home due to her husband’s threats. Police and Adult Protective Services were involved, and Smith eventually left with an ambulance for her safety.
Smith spent five days in the hospital, sleeping in a cot due to overcrowding. Afterward, she stayed in a motel, supported by a church and family. The hospital stay left her with a $600 bill, exacerbating her financial struggles.
Impact of Medical Debt on Debbie Smith
Smith receives $1,108 monthly from Social Security, with $1,018 going to her group home and $95 to a storage unit. This financial strain leaves nothing for necessities or medical bills. Her savings are depleted, leaving her with around $400 in debt, now managed by Wakefield debt collection agency.
Smith struggles with phone calls from collectors and cannot afford basic items. “It makes it really hard for me to buy anything I need,” she admitted.
Medical Debt Forgiveness in North Carolina
On July 1, Gov. Roy Cooper urged hospitals to forgive $4 billion in medical debt for 2 million low-income residents, connected to Medicaid expansion. Hospitals are identifying eligible individuals for debt forgiveness. By July 1, 2025, hospitals will provide relief for Medicaid, SNAP, and WIC enrollees, with changes in debt collection practices.
Vice President Kamala Harris supported the plan’s development, suggesting further debt relief if elected president. Smith, hopeful about the debt forgiveness program, believes it could save lives by alleviating financial desperation. “I really think that it will save some lives,” she said.
—
Read More North Carolina News
