If you are uninsured or have high healthcare costs, you may be eligible for free or discounted hospital care. California law requires every hospital to offer reduced rates to many uninsured and underinsured patients that are low-and moderate-income, and to have policies about who qualifies for free care.

With some exceptions, you could qualify for free or discounted care if:

1. Your income is below 350% of the Federal Poverty Level (currently about $36,400 per year for one person or about $74,200 per year for a family of four)

   AND

2. You do not have health insurance of any kind, or you have health insurance or coverage, but your medical costs are more than 10% of your family’s income in the last year.

Additionally, some hospitals offer discounts to people with incomes higher than 350% of the Federal Poverty Level. Also, note that rural hospitals may set eligibility standards below 350% of the Federal Poverty Level. It is important to read the hospital's policy and application to determine whether or not you qualify for the program.

This website will help you compare the eligibility rules of different hospitals, so you can find out if you are eligible for a discount at a hospital near you.

Additional information on the law can be found here. To download the Fair Pricing flyer, click here.