September 28, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Livingston HealthCare Expands Financial Assistance Program to increase Access to Care
(Livingston, MT)— Livingston HealthCare has approved updates to its Financial Assistance Program that will make more patients and families eligible for discounted care, reinforcing the organization's commitment to ensuring financial circumstances do not become a barrier to receiving necessary healthcare.
The updated policy expands eligibility for financial assistance to households earning up to 400% of the Federal Poverty Level, broadening access to support for many working families who may not have previously qualified.
"As healthcare costs continue to rise and insurance plans place more financial responsibility on patients, we recognize that many families are finding it increasingly difficult to afford the care they need," said Chad Soden, Director of Finance at Livingston HealthCare. "These updates are designed to better meet the needs of our community by expanding access to financial assistance while ensuring Livingston HealthCare can continue providing high-quality care for everyone who walks through our doors."
In addition to increasing income eligibility, Livingston HealthCare has updated the policy to better reflect the needs of the communities it serves by:
- Expanding eligibility to include individuals receiving public assistance.
- Removing the Montana residency requirement, making assistance available based on financial need rather than state residency.
- Establishing presumptive eligibility criteria for patients experiencing circumstances such as homelessness, Medicaid eligibility, incarceration, or other significant financial hardships.
- Simplifying portions of the application process and clarifying documentation requirements to make applying for assistance more straightforward.
The revised policy also recognizes the unique economic realities facing Park County, where the cost of living continues to outpace many household incomes. By updating the program, Livingston HealthCare aims to better support patients while continuing to be responsible stewards of community healthcare resources.
Financial assistance remains available for uninsured and underinsured patients who meet eligibility requirements. Assistance may significantly reduce or eliminate the cost of medically necessary services based on household income and financial circumstances.
"We want patients to seek care when they need it, without feeling the need to delay treatment because they're worried about the cost," Soden said. "If someone is concerned about paying for their healthcare, we encourage them to contact our Patient Financial Services team. We're here to help patients understand their options and determine what works best for them."
Patients can learn more about Livingston HealthCare's Financial Assistance Program, review eligibility requirements, or request an application by contacting Patient Financial Services at 406.823.6414 or visiting LivingstonHealthCare.org.
About Livingston HealthCare: Livingston HealthCare is an independent, non-profit, 25-bed critical access hospital with a Level 4 Community Trauma Facility, a multispecialty provider clinic, as well as rehabilitation, and home-based services. www.LivingstonHealthCare.org
CONTACT:
Kara Wickstrom, Marketing and Communications Manager, PIO
Kara.Wickstrom@LivingstonHealthCare.org 406.823.6261