Orlando, FL: Today, the Orange County Commission will consider a proposal to eliminate the medical debt of over 150,000 residents. The plan involves partnering with the nonprofit Medical Debt Resolution Inc., which will identify individuals in Orange County with outstanding medical bills and work to pay off those debts. The program would be funded by $4.5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act. Officials have confirmed that Central Florida’s two largest hospital systems, Orlando Health and AdventHealth, are willing to participate in this initiative.
Here is Representative Anna V. Eskamani’s statement in support:
I fully support Orange County’s initiative to alleviate the burden of medical debt for over 150,000 residents. By using funds from the American Rescue Plan Act to partner with Medical Debt Resolution Inc., we are taking a meaningful step toward addressing the financial strain that medical expenses can place on families. Eliminating medical debt is not just an act of compassion; it’s a strategic investment in the health and well-being of our community. When families are free from the crushing weight of medical debt, they are better able to contribute to our local economy, pursue new career and educational opportunities, and maintain their overall health.
This plan, in collaboration with Orlando Health and AdventHealth, reflects a commitment to the well-being of our community, particularly those who are most vulnerable. While there are still questions to be answered, this is a crucial first step in the right direction. I encourage the Commissioners to move forward with this plan and continue to explore creative ways to address the economic hardships our families face.