Letter to the editor: Surprise medical bills unhealthy

The feel of a financial shakedown should not come from our medical providers, but that’s the effect of a surprise medical bill. A surprise medical bill is a financial burden that occurs when some part of our medical care is deemed out-of- network, which many times happens during emergency care.

Surprise medical bills affect 30% of Pennsylvanians every year and can cause bankruptcies and financial ruin. An unexpected medical bill at this time, when families are facing income loss and uncertainty, is devastating. Plus, we know the threat of surprise medical bills discourages people from seeking treatment, which with covid-19 puts us all at risk.

I ask my representative, George Dunbar, and all Pennsylvania representatives to support House Bill 1862 and end surprise medical bills for all Pennsylvanians.

It’s important now and always.

Mary Kay Nafaa

North Huntingdon