Patients who wish to be considered for charity care, based on a lack of any insurance or lack of adequate insurance, can do so by calling Customer Service at 704-512-7000. Applications for charity care adjustments are typically referred to a member of the CMC financial counseling staff, who will contact applicants to obtain required information and documentation, and render a final decision.

CMC prefers to conduct financial reviews at the time services are rendered for outpatients, or during the time of hospitalization for inpatients. If circumstances prevent that, appropriate follow-up contact can be arranged.

Other coverage options
CMC's first priority is to ascertain whether third-party coverage is available; for example, through Medicaid or liability plans such as Worker's Compensation. All such coverage options will be explored before any other adjustments are authorized.

Financial information required
Patients being considered for an adjustment are responsible for providing CMC with any requested financial information. That information may include such things as:

• Household income
• Family assets
• Bank balances
• Credit files
• Tax returns
• IRS forms
• Employer statements
• Deeds
• Tax records
• Property assessments, etc.

CMC strives to make final determinations within 45 days of service.

Patient responsibilities
Patients are expected to cooperate fully in the review process by:

• Doing any necessary follow-up work to secure third party reimbursements recommended by CMC.
• Accurately and honestly completing all necessary financial disclosure forms.
• Paying the balance of all accounts that are not eligible for adjustments.

Patients who are not eligible for third party coverage or CMC charity care adjustments, and who are unable to pay balances immediately, may be eligible for an interest-free payment plan lasting up to one year.

Decisions of the financial counselors are final and may not be appealed.