If your loved one is facing end-of-life decisions in Oregon, the fear of leaving medical debt behind for family members to pay should not be a barrier to treatment or comfort. We at the Kim Covington Law Offices understand that medical expenses not covered by private insurance, Medicare or Medicaid can have devastating effects on your finances. Trying to come up with solutions can cause significant difficulties while you are attempting to deal with loss and grief, but the cost of care is not something that you want your family member to worry about.
According to the Oregon Hospice Association, the average medical expenses that could accumulate during your loved one’s last year are approximately $71,517. These are often the result of hospital stays, nursing home care, medications and aggressive and invasive treatments. Talking about end-of-life choices such as these at any time can be difficult, but many Americans avoid the topic until they are already facing big decisions about what level of care to choose.
Round the clock nursing care is often necessary for a person with a terminal illness, and this is frequently provided at skilled nursing facilities. Hospice care may help lower the amount you must spend on end-of-life health care because you can expect fewer hospitalizations and procedures. However, hospice is only available during the last six months of life. You may be able to reduce some medical debt through careful planning and consolidation. For more information about ways to address overwhelming health care debt, please visit our website.
