L.A. County Passes Medical Debt Ordinance

Los Angeles County is set to vote on a new ordinance aimed at alleviating the burden of medical debt, which affects 1 in 10 residents and totals $2.9 billion. The ordinance mandates hospitals to notify the county's Department of Public Health before initiating debt collection efforts and to report on patient medical debt and financial assistance provided. Public health officials emphasize the importance of this transparency, particularly for low-income families who often face food insecurity and avoid seeking medical care due to financial concerns. Critics argue that implementing the required reporting could be challenging for under-resourced hospitals. Supporters, including healthcare leaders, advocate for the need to improve financial assistance practices and ensure patients aren't unduly penalized for their medical expenses. The ordinance requires a second vote before it can be enacted.