Legal Question in Health Care Law in California

I was suffering from depression for a long time that was brought on by a break-up in May 2009 from an 18 year unmarried relationship. By October 2009 I was desperate for help. So desperate that I walked into a hospital and told them I had a plan for suicide. Soon after I was imprisoned in the hospital as a 51-50. Immediately after realizing I was imprisoned I pleaded to be let go, because for one thing, I could not afford it. My pleading fell onto deaf ears. All they cared about was that I did have insurance. Anthem insurance that was paid by ex-boyfriend, but I no longer have any insurance now. After transferring me from one hospital to another via ambulance, 2 days later I was released earlier than usual. Soon after I received all of the bills. A total of $2,914. I am living at poverty level and have a part-time job. I was advised by friends and family to not worry about it, don't pay the bills, they'll get their money. Two of the people that made those comments are in the medical field. But now that one of the medical bills started charging interest too, I have become more worried. Please give me advice on what the best options would be.

Sincerely, A. Wright


Asked on 3/16/10, 5:03 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Elizabeth Karnazes New York Offices of Elizabeth Karnazes

Call the hospital and explain it was an involuntary 5150 hold, you have no money and are not responsible for it. Those holds are awful and rarely helpful. I sympathize with you.

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Answered on 3/22/10, 4:48 pm


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