Ochsner Medical Center Financial Assistance & Charity Care
Information verified: February 5, 2026
Financial Assistance Eligibility at Ochsner Medical Center
| Income Level | Coverage |
|---|---|
| Up to 200% FPL | 100% Free Care |
| 200%-400% FPL | Discounted Care |
| Above 400% FPL | Not eligible (can still negotiate) |
Patients at or below 200% FPL qualify for 100% financial assistance. Those between 201-400% FPL receive partial discounts on a sliding scale. Ochsner is Louisiana's largest non-profit health system with over 46 hospitals across the Gulf South.
Check Your Eligibility at Ochsner Medical Center
Find out if you qualify for charity care or financial assistance based on federal poverty guidelines.
How to Apply for Financial Assistance at Ochsner Medical Center
- Contact the hospital billing department at (504) 842-4190 and ask about financial assistance.
- Request a financial assistance application or download it from the hospital website.
- Gather all required documents (listed below).
- Complete the application and submit it with supporting documentation.
- Wait for the hospital's determination, typically within 30 days.
- If approved, the discount will be applied to your outstanding bills.
Required Documents
- Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or W-2 forms)
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of Louisiana or Mississippi residency
- Insurance information or proof of uninsured status
- Completed financial assistance application
What to Do If Denied
If your financial assistance application is denied, you have options:
- Request a written explanation of why you were denied.
- Appeal the decision by providing additional documentation or extenuating circumstances.
- Contact a patient advocate at the hospital for assistance.
- File a complaint with the state attorney general if you believe the hospital is not following its policies.
- Negotiate a payment plan with the billing department, even if you don't qualify for financial assistance.
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Analyze My Bill for FreeRelated Resources
A comprehensive guide to understanding Federal Poverty Level guidelines and how to apply for hospital charity care programs.
Federal law requires hospitals to inform you about charity care. Here's what they're legally obligated to provide.