Medical Expenses

[waitingforwifey 0]

Hi All,

I sponsored one of our family friends (not blood relative) to the US. He came here early this month. About 2 weeks ago we had to take him to hospital emergency as he was having a heart attack. I want to know that since I am not a blood-relative, and have not signed any hospital forms where it holds me responsible for all the medical bills and costs, will the USCIS still make me responsible to pay all the bills? My friend purchased medical insurance here in US but it only covers cost upto $50,000, however the hospital bills are significantly more than that and I am just worried if I will be made responsible to pay all the remaining amount. Any information regarding this will be much appreciated.

Thanks!

[Kez/JWolf 6]

If you sponsor someone it does not matter if they are a blood relative or not.... you have made a commitment to make sure that that person does not become a public charge....

If you would be held responsible for his hospital debt... it would be unlikely as it is not a benefit that is classed as being a public charge.... most states have finacial help available to cover emergency medical fees... but I am sure the hospital will be looking to sort out some sort of payment plan to clear his debt....

Kez

[Nanusia & Lukaszek 0]

If you sponsor someone it does not matter if they are a blood relative or not.... you have made a commitment to make sure that that person does not become a public charge....

If you would be held responsible for his hospital debt... it would be unlikely as it is not a benefit that is classed as being a public charge.... most states have finacial help available to cover emergency medical fees... but I am sure the hospital will be looking to sort out some sort of payment plan to clear his debt....

Kez

I believe he will be held accountable for the hospital bill. Not sure how the hospital will get his name to start making him the one to pay, but that is why you sponsor someone, to avoid these type of situations. I'm not by any means saying the OP did this, but people would come to the US, get medical care, leave a huge bill and go home. The "sponsoring" holds someone accountable for medical bills and related charges.

[Kez/JWolf 6]

When you sponsor someone for immigration purposes you do not agree to pay debts incored by the immigrant.... the sponsorship is an agreement between the sponsor and the US Government... agreeing to repay the government for any means teasted benefits that the immigrant claims.... that does not include medical fees which is a debt between the patient and the hospital.... nothing to do with the US Government or immigration...

Kez