Medically Indigent Assistance Program (MIAP)

Purpose of Funding

Charleston County's Medically Indigent Assistance Program (MIAP) forgives inpatient hospitalization debt for the uninsured when they meet the income eligibility guide lines.

Persons with Medicare and insurance (when insurance pays 80% and above) from other sources are not eligible.

Also, services provided by a doctor while you are in the hospital are not covered by the Medically Indigent Assistance Program. Such services include the reading of X-rays, checking of lab work, surgeon fees and visits by your doctor.

Contact

MIAP Inpatient Coordinator

4045 Bridge View Dr., N. Charleston, SC 29405

Suite C202

Phone: (843) 202-6960

Fax: (843) 202-6061

Email: CASmalls@CharlestonCounty.org

Office Hours: M – F | 8:30AM – 5PM

Who Can Apply?

Charleston County residents unable to pay for their hospital care when hospitalization is necessary.

When Can I Apply?

As early as 30 days before the date you are to enter the hospital, while you are in the hospital or within one year after your hospitalization.

How Often Do I Apply?

You need to apply for assistance each time you enter the hospital.

Who Cannot Apply?

Individuals who:

  • Have Medicaid
  • Have Medicare Part A Benefits
  • Have medical insurance that will pay 80% or more of the hospital bill.
  • Are in governmental institution (state hospital or correctional facility). Detainees awaiting trial may apply.
Am I Eligible?
  • You must be a resident of South Carolina
  • You must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident alien
  • Your gross family income must be no more than 200% of the federal poverty guidelines
  • Your property, bank account(s) and other resources cannot exceed a certain limit
What is the Federal Poverty Guideline?

It is the maximum income a family can have and receive help from certain government programs. In 2011 the following income guide lines were set:

Federal Poverty Level: Effective March 1, 2011

*Gross Annual Income

Family Size
100% GAI*
200% GAI*
1
$10,890
$21,780
2
$14,710
$49,424
3
$18,530
$37,068
4
$22,350
$44,700
5
$26,170
$52,344
6
$29,990
$59,988
7
$33,810
$67,620
8
$37,630
$75,264

For families of more than eight people, add $3,820 for each additional member.

What Services Are Covered?

Services received as an inpatient of the hospital are covered when medically necessary, such as room rate, dietary amenities, nursing and medication.

What About An Emergency?

When you enter the hospital because of a medical emergency, the hospital will take your application and send it to the county in which you live.

Will I Have To Pay?

Your bill will be paid in full if your family's income is below 100% and 200% of the federal poverty level. The amount that you will be asked to pay on your hospital care depends on your family's income.