Before receiving charitable care, what must the patient do?

• A. Sign a written statement saying they are receiving care without payment and sets forth limitations on damages
• B. The patient must obtain hospital consent
• C. The patient must provide insurance information
• D. The patient must pay a fee

Answer: (A)

When hospitals offer charitable care, they typically require the patient to sign a written statement that confirms the care is being provided without payment and that outlines any limitations on damages. This signed acknowledgment clearly documents that the patient understands the financial arrangement (charity care) and that there may be constraints on liability or what can be pursued later. It protects both parties by preventing misunderstandings about payment obligations and the scope of the hospital’s liability under the charity program.

The other options don’t fit because receiving charitable care isn’t about hospital consent, it isn’t primarily about providing insurance information, and charity care means there isn’t a fee to be paid.