Those from other counties seeking non-emergency care began paying fees on a sliding scale based on income, effective Wednesday. Officials say about one in four indigent patients 37,000 patients a year comes from outside Fulton and DeKalb.
A visit that had cost $3 could now cost about $75. Grady's chief financial officer, Michael Ayres, says the fee can be paid in installments of about $25, but if a person doesn't have the money for a non-emergency visit, they will not be seen.
Urgent care will be provided, but officials plan on checking finances and residency more closely.
Grady in recent months sent letters to officials in a number of outlying counties - including Dawson and Hall - requesting help in paying for the people from their counties who are treated at the hospital.
Grady in recent months sent letters to officials in a number of outlying counties - including Dawson and Hall - requesting help in paying for the people from their counties who are treated at the hospital.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2009/4/219250