Latest Changes to Senior Care Program
Dear Senior Care Program Member:
Clark Fork Valley Hospital made significant changes to its Senior Care Program in 2009 that expanded the financial benefit to our patients. We know that these changes were well received and very much appreciated. Unfortunately, in a recent review of our program, we have determined that Medicare regulations preclude us from routinely writing off balances that are deemed to be the patient’s responsibility under that program.
As a result, effective October 1, 2010, we will be eliminating the financial benefit specific to the Senior Care Program which provides for the forgiveness of balances on hospital and clinic accounts after billing to Medicare and any secondary insurance. This change will apply to bills for services received after October 1. We will continue to offer the other Senior Care benefits such as discounts in the hospital cafeteria and gift shop.
Please know that Clark Fork Valley Hospital is committed to assisting you to receive the healthcare services you need. We continue to provide a Financial Assistance Program for which all of our patients are eligible. This program offers discounts ranging from 25% to 100% of your balance after application of any available insurance benefits, based on household income. We have enclosed an application form for Financial Assistance with this letter. I know that this application is somewhat more involved than the Senior Care application that you submitted previously. With that in mind, our Financial Counselors are ready and eager to help you complete the application form. Please contact Maureen Rowan at 826-4859 with any questions or to set up an appointment with a Financial Counselor. Also, we will only require Senior Care members to submit an application once each year.
I understand that you have received a valuable benefit under the Senior Care Program and I am disappointed that we must make this change. Clark Fork Valley Hospital will however continue to help you receive the medical care that you need. As always, thank you for choosing Clark Fork Valley Hospital for your health care.
Sincerely,
Gregory S. Hanson
President/CEO