A.D. was adjusting to life as a newly divorced parent with a small child while also trying to manage a chronic illness.
When her symptoms started, she avoided going to the doctor because she didn’t have access to health insurance. After her divorce, she tried applying for Medicaid, but her part-time job placed her over the income limits. 
Eventually A.D.’s symptoms worsened and seeking medical care was unavoidable. A.D. went to the Emergency Department at Aurora Medical Center-Bay Area and was admitted for an inpatient stay. Already struggling to make ends meet, A.D. was terrified that she would get a large medical bill. 
The hospital’s financial advocate met with A.D. and completed a financial assessment. 
“I’ve been putting off coming to the hospital for quite some time because I don’t have insurance,” A.D. said. “I knew my health wasn’t good, but I also knew there was no way I could pay for any medical bills on my own.”
Following the financial assessment, the advocate was able to approve A.D. for a 100% discount on her medical bills through the Advocate Aurora Health Patient Financial Assistance Program.
The financial advocate delivered the good news to A.D. Through tears, A.D. replied, “This is such a blessing. I am so thankful that this is available for patients like me.”