Financial Assistance

UNC Health Appalachian offers several financial aid options to help you resolve your account balances. We accept Visa, Mastercard, Discover, cash or checks. We offer 12-month interest-free payment plans and a Healthcare Credit Card for longer-term loans. We also offer help identifying other programs, discounts, and services for which you may qualify.

We understand medical bills are often unplanned and can be difficult to understand or pay. UNCHA has Patient Financial Advocates who are professionally trained to assist with your financial questions. The Financial Counseling Department is also available to help patients who may have difficulty repaying their medical debts.

Financial Assistance is available to patients who need help paying their accounts. Assistance is based on the guarantor’s financial status. The guarantor is the person who is responsible for paying the medical bill. To determine this, the guarantor will need to complete a Financial Assistance application that includes but is not limited to, proof of income and assets.

How to Receive Financial Assistance

1. Ask for a Patient Financial Advocate while you are a patient. You may also call (828) 262-4110, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
2. Complete a Financial Assistance Application.
   • Pick up an application at Watauga Medical Center, Cannon Memorial Hospital, or any of the offices of Appalachian Regional Medical Associates.
   • Request an application be sent to you by mail. Call (828) 262-4110 or (828) 262-4111 or write to 336 Deerfield Road, Boone, NC 28607.
3. Return the application and all required documentation within the allotted time.
4. UNCHA will determine eligibility based on the application and supporting documents.