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Flint Local NewsFlint Mayor Sheldon Neeley announces medical debt forgiveness for qualifying households

Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley announces medical debt forgiveness for qualifying households

Flint, Michigan— Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley has announced that the City of Flint has partnered with the national nonprofit organization Undue Medical Debt in a major effort to address the epidemic of medical debt among Flint residents. This cooperation represents a turning point in the city’s initiatives for economic justice and enhance community welfare.

Mayor Neeley announced last week the acceptance of the Undo Medical Bill Resolution, an effort meant to reduce the financial load of medical bills that severely affects many Flint households.

“Medical debt is one of the leading causes of bankruptcy in the United States, impacting families and individuals across all demographics,” said Mayor Neeley. “By teaming up with Undue Medical Debt, Flint is taking a stand for its residents, ensuring that financial hardships caused by medical bills do not continue to cripple our community. This is about restoring dignity and financial stability to our people.”

With over 40% of Americans affected, the medical debt crisis in America is severe; those with children suffering the most. Data from the U.S. Census Bureau indicates that compared to 17% of homes without children, almost one in four households with children say they struggle with outstanding medical costs. The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau has pointed out that a good amount of this debt results from unanticipated or temporary medical expenses like emergency hospital visits.

The initiative between the City of Flint and Undue Medical Debt will seek to identify and collaborate with local healthcare providers to find innovative ways to reduce or completely forgive the medical debt of qualifying residents. This approach seeks to eliminate long-standing obstacles to obtaining required healthcare treatments in addition to easing severe financial burden.

Read also: Michigan agencies receive federal funding to reduce lead hazards and improve housing conditions

Mayor Neeley underlined the wider consequences of the decision. He says this is more than simply financial help; it’s about creating a strong society where every person and family can thrive free from the constant fear of medical debt.

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Mayor Neeley and the Flint City Council’s actions show a growing awareness of the necessity of structural solutions to correct financial inequalities brought on by medical costs. This alliance is evidence of Flint’s dedication to its people, making sure that the agenda of the city gives healthcare affordability and access top priority for a better and more equitable future.