Medical Bills post-Mental Health Crisis
Hi, my name is Charlie Pluto and I am 19 years old. I have struggled with my mental health for coming on a decade now. Over the last 5 years I have been admitted into different mental health facilities/programs to help stabilize myself. Within the last few months I have been medically hospitalized once and mentally twice. Since I have not worked at my job for a year yet, I do not qualify for FMLA and am therefore not being compensated for the time I was forced to take off. Due to this, I have medical bills adding up that I am having difficulties covering by myself (even after what insurance has covered).
In June of 2023 I had a mental health crisis that resulted in a self induced overdose. I was rushed to a medical hospital in an ambulance and treated there. After medically stabilizing me I was transferred to a mental care facility to further support me. A bit less than a month later, I was too depressed to get out of bed and had myself admitted into a mental institution as a preventative measure to anything more serious occurring. It wasn’t until after being released from both facilities that I had received the bill for my ambulance ride ($355.49), medical hospital care ($4,703.10), and one of my mental facilities stays ($136.51). My insurance through my parents has greatly helped reduce these bills to their current amount. While I was able to cover the $140 myself, I am struggling to cover the rest, including an awaiting bill for assumingly around $140 once again. As a new adult I am still getting the hang of handling my regular bills (rent, car insurance, gas, groceries, etc.) and these added medical bills are truly becoming something that’s a bit overwhelming. My ambulance ride for $355.49 is due a day before my birthday on September 15th, which is quickly approaching.
It is due to all of this that I am reaching out for support. I have selected a nonprofit organization to ask for support because anyone who donates will be able to receive a tax deduction for the next coming tax season. Any donations are greatly appreciated if they are possible.
Thank you for any and all support 🙂
UPDATE: I have now completely covered my ambulance ride for $355.49 and one of my bills for $2,614.19!!!
UPDATE 2 (2/2/24): I now only owe $1,070!!! I have a remaining bill of $984.49 and another of 81.34.
UPDATE 3 (2/3/24): just got an email about another bill of $1,210. loooove health care in america. i now owe $2,280