Medical debt is crushing hospital patients in LA. Health officials may have a fix

In Los Angeles County, a new system aims to screen hospital patients for financial aid, potentially saving hundreds of thousands from overwhelming medical debt. This initiative is crucial as medical bills are a leading cause of personal bankruptcy in the U.S. By identifying eligible patients early, the program could alleviate the financial strain on both individuals and the healthcare system, ensuring better overall health outcomes and reducing the cycle of debt. This move signifies a significant step toward addressing healthcare disparities and promoting equity in medical care.