FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
When a patient requests information about financial assistance or has concerns about financial hardships and foresees difficulty paying, financial assistance can be offered. Patients should first be offered a reasonable payment plan for their patient responsibility due. Shawnee Mission Medical Center’s (SMMC) goal is to work with patients to assist in what is best for them financially.
How does a patient receive consideration for financial assistance?
In order for SMMC to consider a patient for financial assistance a patient is required to fill out a Financial Assistance Application and encouraged to sign a 4506-T form at the time of admission.
To complete document requirements a patient will need to provide the following:
• Federal Income Tax Return for the most current year (not required if a 4506-T form signed is at time of admission)
• Two (2) most recent employer pay stubs
• Copy of two (2) most recent bank statements
Who is eligible for financial assistance?
SMMC provides financial assistance for those who meet pre-determined criteria. The following services are excluded from financial assistance: bariatric surgery and all pre-procedure services, in-vitro fertilization and all related storage services, and maternity prepay plans.
When a patient fills out a financial assistance application, does this guarantee approval?
Filling out a financial assistance application is not a guarantee that a patient will be approved. Even if a patient is approved for full financial assistance a minimum deposit for each account is required.
How long does a patient have to apply for financial assistance?
An account is eligible for financial assistance for up to six months from the first patient statement.
Can a denied financial assistance application be appealed?
An appeal process is available to a patient if they disagree with the initial determination and/or if a patient has additional information to provide.
How should a patient proceed if their situation has significantly changed since their last tax return?
A patient will be asked to provide Shawnee Mission Medical Center with the following documentation:
• Two (2) most recent employer pay stubs
• Copy of two (2) most recent bank statements
• A letter from the person who is financially supporting the patient