Common Billing Questions

Why does LSUHSC Shreveport charge for treatment?

We must pay for the medicine, supplies and equipment we use to treat you. We also must pay the doctors, nurses and all the employees who care for you.

I thought medical care at LSUHSC Shreveport was free.

Only needy Louisiana residents can qualify for free care. You must fill out a form and give us proof of your income level and family size to apply for free care.

Will I get a bill?

You will get a bill if you do not have health insurance. If you have health insurance and showed us a current insurance card when you checked in, we will send the bill to your insurance company for you. If your health insurance does not pay the bill in full, you may get a bill for the amount left over.

Do you accept Medicare and Medicaid?

Yes. We will send the bill to Medicare if you have a current Medicare card. You may have to pay your Medicare deductible or copayment. We will send the bill to Medicaid if you have a current Medicaid card. If you have a Medicaid Community Care card, you must bring a referral from your doctor to your appointment.

Do I have to pay anything now?

Your health insurance company may require you to pay a small fee now called a copayment. If your illness is not covered by your health insurance policy, you may be asked to pay for your treatment in advance. If you do not have health insurance and you are not a Louisiana resident, you must pay a deposit.

What happens if my health insurance does not pay the bill?

We will send you a bill for the amount that your health insurance did not pay.

I want to pay my bill, but I cannot pay the full amount right now. What should I do?

Please call our Credit Office at 318.675.7503. We can help you arrange a payment plan. We also accept VISA and MasterCard for your convenience.

Can my credit be affected if I do not pay my bill?

Yes. Medical bills are just like other bills you must pay. If you do not pay your bill, your account may be sent to a collection agency. Your credit report may also show that you did not pay the bill.

If you believe you may qualify for free care, please contact Financial Counseling to receive a Free Care Application.

Upon completion, please send the Free Care Application, along with all required documentation to:

LSU Health Shreveport - Financial Counseling
1501 Kings Hwy.
Shreveport, LA 71130

The Patient Accounts Cashier window is located on the first floor of the main hospital building. The Financial Counseling office is right next door at room K1-9. Follow the overhead signs that point to "Billing."