SEATTLE, Wash.-Thousands of patients in Washington may be eligible for refunds after the hospital chain PeaceHealth billed low-income patients without notifying them that they may be eligible for financial assistance.
Attorney General Bob Ferguson announced that PeaceHealth is refunding up to $13.4 million to more than 15,000 low-income patients of its five western Washington hospitals, at a press conference on Monday, Nov. 20.
PeaceHealth operates hospitals in Bellingham, Friday Harbor, Longview, Sedro-Woolley and Vancouver.
The refunds are coming after an investigation into the hospital’s financial assistance and collection practices started in 2020 as part of the AG Office’s Health Care Inititative.
The investigation by the AG’s Office found that PeaceHealth billed thousands of low-income patients who likely qualified for financial assistance without informing them of their eligibility.
PeaceHealth will pay approximately $4.2 million in direct refunds — including more than $400,000 in interest — to more than 4,500 patients, according to a consent decree from Whatcom County Superior Court.
According to the AG’s Office, the average refund payment will be more than $900 and Eight Washingtonians will receive more than $10,000. Nearly 50 will see refunds of more than $5,000. Checks will be mailed directly to those receiving refunds.
An additional 11,000 patients who were likely eligible for help with their medical bills are eligible to file a claim full restitution plus interest. Those eligible to file a claim will be receiving a letter from the Attorney General’s Office explaining the filing and refund process.
Anyone with questions about refund eligibility, or who thinks they may qualify should contact PeaceHealth at 877-314-2011.
