If my aunt just passed away but was uninsured and now the hospital is trying to dump the medical bill of her 24 hours of hospice on my uncle, is he legally obligated to pay that?
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If my aunt just passed away but was uninsured and now the hospital is trying to dump the medical bill of her 24 hours of hospice on my uncle, is he legally obligated to pay that?
She had a brain aneurysm, was taken by ambulance to the hospital and laid in bed until she stopped breathing. There were MRI’s and other procedures.
Asked on November 8, 2017 under Estate Planning, North Dakota
Answers:
M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 6 years ago | Contributor
My research suggests that in ND, a spouse is not liable for any medical debts incurred by their spouse, deceased or living. While there is liability for other spousal debt, as to expenses for a hospital stay and treatment (as in your case), there is no such liability. If the hospital continues to try and hold your uncle responsible for the bill, he should ask a local attorney to write them a letter to cease any collection efforts. He should do this sooner than later because he doesn't want the hospital to send the bill over to a collection agency as this could adversely effect his credit.
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