From Danville Regional Health System
Better Health Magazine Archives

In 1995, Danville Regional Medical Center's Service Credit Program made national headlines for helping patients pay off medical bills by working in exchange for credit. Today, the Service Credit Program continues to inspire other hospitals to start similar programs - and inspires participants to use their experience as a springboard to other opportunities.

Since the program received media attention, Service Credit Coordinator Monroe Patterson, Jr. has fielded about 200 inquiries from hospitals interested in developing their own programs. "It's been a good return on our investment," said Patterson. "Not only have we received a lot of publicity, we've hired several participants."

For many, the Service Credit Program has been a good opportunity to learn job skills - and see what it takes to run a hospital. The experience has even inspired some participants to return to school, start a new job or become a hospital volunteer or associate.

Most people participate because they are under insured and can't afford to pay what their insurance won't cover. Participation is strictly on a volunteer basis, and schedules are flexible base on what each individual can contribute. The $6 per hour they earn is directly applied to their medical bill after taxes. With jobs ranging from data entry to maintenance, there's something for everyone."

"We're willing to accommodate anyone who wants to participate," said Patterson. "Not only does this program provide a good alternative to paying off medical bills, the participants truly become part of our team."

For more information, call Monroe Patterson, Jr. at (434) 799-4464