Medical bills and collections - should they be paid or ignored?

Question

My friend's father-in-law came here from another country, and he absolutely needed a medical visit and treatment while he was here. He told the doctors and hospital that he would not be able to pay, since he's got no job, no credit, and no property. The father-in-law did receive a bill from the hospital, and now collection agencies are trying to get the money.

What can they tell the agency to help them understand that they can't get the money? Should the father-in-law ignore the pleas from the agency? Should he fear criminal prosecution?

Answer 1

Your friend's father in law can call the collection agency and attempt to explain to them that he is "judgment proof" meaning he has no assets or property that they can attach, and no wages they can garnish, but my experience with collection agencies is that they are ruthless and have no mercy and just plain don't care.

However, if your friend's father in law is a citizen of another country, depending on what country he is from, even if the collection agency could file a suit, get valid service on him and obtain a judgment, there is the possibility that they would not be able to obtain anything from him even if he owned property or had bank accounts there.  It might help to consult an attorney on just this question.  Some will even do the consultation for free or for a small fee.

Of course, if there is a possibility that they can be paid, that is always the best.

The father in law cannot be criminally prosecuted for unpaid medical bills.  This is a civil matter and would have to be dealt with in civil courts.