New state law bars hospitals from collecting on debts until they first try charity care

A law that went into effect November 1st, requires hospitals to apply discounts, and inform patients of charity care, before sending unpaid bills off for collections. It seems intuitive that hospitals would be motivated to do this, if there is an easy way for them to get paid, but legislation was required to ensure that charitable sources are exhausted before debt collection measures are taken. This article has more information.