Question: If we help patients and their families enroll in Medicaid or other public programs (or contract with another organizations to do this), can it be counted as community benefit?

Recommendation: Yes, this cost could be counted under Category A3 — Health Care Support Services. The cost of enrollment assistance can be included whether your organization carries out this function itself or contracts with another organization. Enrollment in a public program helps the person gain access not only to your services but to other primary, preventive, and follow up care.

However, helping patients and families apply for your hospital's financial assistance program is not a community benefit. Rather, it is a part of your hospital's routine operations.