INDIANA – Indiana residents concerned about the rising cost of healthcare and resulting medical debt have a crucial opportunity to engage with state lawmakers this week. Following a summer dedicated to studying medical debt, the legislature has scheduled a public hearing on health care costs and debt for this coming Wednesday at 10 a.m.
The hearing is the result of Hoosiers “coming together and raising [their] voices,” which captured the attention of Indiana’s lawmakers. The sentiment driving the push is that a quality life is only possible if Hoosiers can take care of their health without worrying about financial ruin.
Advocates are encouraging residents to maintain pressure on lawmakers by taking one or more of the following three steps:
- Attend and/or Testify at the Hearing: The public is invited to attend the hearing on Wednesday. Those wishing to testify must sign up in advance outside room 431 and should plan their remarks for 2-3 minutes of speaking time. Organizers are also available to help attendees with testimony preparation or finding the correct room.
- Send a Message to Your Legislators: A simple form is available for residents to share their experiences and thoughts on healthcare costs and debt. Messages sent through this form will go directly to the policymaker who currently represents the sender.
- Make a Financial Contribution: Supporting new legislation requires lobbying time that is not typically covered by grants. A contribution, such as $25, can help cover the time spent sitting down with a legislator to explain the proposed bill and ask for their support.
Resources for Medical Debt
For Hoosiers seeking more information about the issue or printable resources to help navigate existing medical debt, the Indiana Community Action Poverty Institute’s dedicated medical debt page is available.
