WEST PLAINS, MO – Ozarks Healthcare is expanding patient support services by offering on-site financial counselors and eligibility specialists to help patients better understand and manage their healthcare financial options in a supportive, compassionate setting.
“Ozarks Healthcare recognizes that receiving the right care often requires access to the right providers, equipment, medications, and ongoing treatments – all of which can create financial stress for patients and families,” Terence Farrell, Ozarks Healthcare President and CEO, said. “We are committed to ensuring that financial concerns do not become a barrier to care. Patients may have options available to them that they are not aware of, and our team is here to help identify and explain those resources. Above all, we care about helping every patient get the care they need in a way that is manageable and sustainable for their individual situation.”
Financial counseling services are available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at three convenient locations within Ozarks Healthcare: An eligibility specialist and financial counselor are located in the hospital’s Main Entrance registration area, while additional financial counselors are available in the hospital’s North Entrance (between Ozarks Healthcare’s Emergency Department and Women’s Center), and Shaw Building to specifically assist oncology and therapy patients. Financial counselors are also accessible at Ozarks Healthcare Patient Financial Services located at Parkway Center, 1211 Porter Wagoner Blvd., West Plains.
These trained professionals provide personalized assistance to patients and employees, including helping set up payroll deductions, making payment arrangements, processing payments, and assisting with financial assistance applications. They also help patients complete Medicaid applications and guide individuals through presumptive eligibility determinations, which can provide temporary access to coverage while full Medicaid eligibility is being reviewed.
In addition, financial counselors work with patients to review all available payment options, including CareCredit, local bank financing options, and other resources that may help make care more accessible and manageable.
Presumptive eligibility is a key resource that allows certain patients who appear to meet Medicaid qualifications to receive temporary coverage quickly, ensuring they can access necessary care while their full application is being processed. Medicaid itself provides coverage for individuals who may be unable to work and need assistance with healthcare-related financial obligations.
Ozarks Healthcare leaders emphasize that the goal of these services is to ensure patients have clear guidance and support during what can often be a confusing and stressful process.
“Having knowledgeable, kind, and professional financial counselors available on-site means patients are not navigating these decisions alone,” Melody Simpson, Ozarks Healthcare Director of Revenue Cycle, said. “They are here to listen, explain options, and help each individual find a path forward that works for their situation.”
Patients can expect a private, respectful experience with team members who are dedicated to helping them understand their financial responsibilities and explore all available options.
The addition of on-site financial counseling reflects Ozarks Healthcare’s ongoing commitment to patient-centered care, supporting not only medical needs, but the financial well-being of the individuals and families it serves.
