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Sliding Fee Discount Program

Sliding Fee Discount Program

  • What is a Sliding Fee Discount Program?

    The Sliding Fee Discount Program sets a discount level on what you pay based on your family size and income. You can apply for a discount even if you have health insurance.

  • Who can apply for the Sliding Fee Discount Program?

    All patients can apply for the sliding fee discount program even if they have health insurance. No patient is turned away due to inability to pay.

  • What happens after the approval process?

    Once approved, any discount depends on income and family size compared to the Federal Poverty Guidelines. If you have health insurance, the discount may apply to the patient's balances (like deductibles and copays) after the insurance claim is processed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  1. How do I apply?

    You are eligible to apply by completing the sliding fee application in person or over the phone.

    See Program Eligibility Requirements.

  2. What happens next?

    There are five discount levels based on income and family size that will determine your discount. The discount is taken off of our standard charges and will remain valid for one year after the date of the application.

    Once approved, you must report any change in your income, family size, or insurance status.

  3. Is FoundCare a free health center?

    No, all patients are responsible for a portion of the cost of their care. If you are unable to pay your balance, our office will assist you with scheduling payment arrangements. No one is turned away due to inability to pay.

  4. Can I still apply for the sliding fee program if I have health insurance?

    Yes, if you qualify for the sliding fee program, the discount may help reduce the cost of services your health insurance does not cover. 

  5. How long will I stay on the sliding fee discount program?

    Eligibility is renewed every 12 months or at the time of income or insurance changes. You are required to inform FoundCare of any changes in your income and/or insurance coverage.

  6. How do I determine my family size?

    FoundCare defines family size as the following: 

    • Individuals that can be claimed by guarantor on a Federal or State income tax returns
    • Family members living or not living with the patient but largely supported by the patient’s income

Sliding Fee Discount Program Eligibility Requirements

Please provide at least one item from EACH of the eligibility requirements listed below. 

PROOF OF IDENTIFICATION (ONE ITEM REQUIRED):

  • Photo Identification
  • Driver’s License
  • State Identification
  • Passport
  • Social Security Card with Name
  • Voter Registration Card
  • Birth Certificate
  • Resident Card or I-94 Form

PROOF OF INCOME (ONE ITEM REQUIRED):

  • Two Consecutive Check Stubs
  • Unearned Income (includes child support, disability income, rental income, etc.)
  • Current Year Tax Return (prior year if extension filed)
  • Letter from State of Florida Unemployment Office
  • Letter from Homeless Shelter or Community Faith Based Organization
  • Notarized Letter from Employer Certifying Income
  • Self-Declaration
    • Only good for six months
    • Must wait six months before using self-declaration again

Schedule of Income Thresholds Based upon 2023 Federal Poverty Guidelines

Definition of Terms Used

Sliding Fee Discount – discounts offered on services provided by a FoundCare to individuals or families based on financial eligibility through assessment of income and family size.

Family Size – Total persons living under the same roof and related by descent or marriage for the purpose of assessing sliding fee discount eligibility based on family income and family size. (There may be more than one family living under the same roof.)

Family Income – Total income generated by a family living under the same roof for the purpose of assessing sliding fee discount eligibility based on family income and family size. (There may be more than one family living under the same roof.)

Nominal Fee – Fixed fee that does not reflect the true value of the service(s) provided and is considered nominal from the perspective of the patient. The nominal fee is approved by the board of directors to be collected at the time of service.

Sliding Discount Program Quick Guide

1. Submit an Application

Our application form will be completed in person at the time of your first visit with a qualified FoundCare advisor. You may also complete the application over the phone (documents will need to be faxed or emailed to our office).

2. Provide Financial Information

To determine your eligibility, you will need to provide Proof of Income and Proof of Identification. 

3. Same Day Approval

Upon meeting with a FoundCare advisor, you will be notified of your eligibility and any available discounts  on the same day. Even if you don’t qualify for 100% coverage, there are several tiers and you may still be eligible for discounts. 

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