Who is considered an indigent individual?

An indigent individual is defined as someone who lacks the financial resources to pay for basic services, including healthcare, and is not eligible for public assistance programs. This means they do not have sufficient income or assets to afford necessary care and are not covered by any safety net systems that might provide support, such as Medicaid or other assistance programs.

The identification of an indigent individual is crucial in healthcare settings because it helps determine eligibility for charity care, sliding scale payment options, and other financial assistance programs that are set up to provide care for those who cannot afford it. Understanding the plight of indigent individuals is essential for healthcare providers as they create policies and practices to ensure access to medical care for all, regardless of their financial situation.