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Nonprofit

Mass General Brigham

Mass General BrighamSomerville, MA1-866-378-9421
Charity Care Policy

Mass General Brigham provides free care for patients at or below 300% FPL through its Health Safety Net program. Patients between 300-400% FPL may receive partial discounts. Massachusetts state law provides additional protections.

Income Eligibility

100% free care below 300% FPL; partial discounts up to 400% FPL

Financial Data

Tax Exemption Value

$2.7 billion in community benefit (2023)

Charity Care Provided

$650 million in charity care (2023)

Nonprofit hospitals receive tax exemptions in exchange for providing community benefits including charity care. Under IRS Section 501(r), they are required to have a written financial assistance policy and may not pursue extraordinary collection actions before making reasonable efforts to determine eligibility.

How to Apply
  1. 1Apply through the Financial Counseling office.
  2. 2The Health Safety Net application is available online and at all facilities.
  3. 3Submit with proof of income, residency, and insurance status within 120 days.

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Know Your Rights

As a patient at Mass General Brigham, you have the right to:

  • Receive a plain-language summary of the hospital's financial assistance policy before being billed
  • Apply for financial assistance up to 240 days after your first billing statement
  • Not be sent to collections or have liens placed on your property while your application is pending
  • Receive emergency care regardless of your ability to pay, under EMTALA federal law
  • Request an itemized bill with every charge explained in detail
  • Dispute any charge you believe is inaccurate or unfair
  • Be charged no more than the amounts generally billed to insured patients if you qualify for financial assistance
  • Have your financial assistance application reviewed within a reasonable time frame