Expert: Chris Ebert - 5/7/2009

Question
My dad was in the hospital for almost 2 weeks in an emergency situation (poor health).He lives in El paso Texas if that makes a difference on anything. Anyway, he has about $9,500 in unpaid medical debt from just one visit to the hospital. I wanted to know if any collectors can put a lien on his house or land for it not being paid. Can they take it away if that medical debt isnt paid? Thank you for your time.
                     
                   - Lindsey

Answer
Lindsey,

If the debt is not paid then they can file a lawsuit and get a lien. They can attach it to property owned by your dad. They can not force the sale of his homestead but could force the sale of other property not protected.

I would suggest contacting the hospital about the bills and ask if they can offer assistance. Most hospitals have an indigent or paupers affidavit that you can fill out with paperwork proving his inability to pay the debt. They can then right off some or all of the bill. You may also want to look at medical charities as another payment solution.