Asked in Personal Injury and Health Care Law for Florida

Q: Is it legal for a doctor to give free service when the patient can't pay.

Weird question, I know.

So, 4 days ago I slipped on my stairs and broke my ankle. It hurts alot walking so I have to rest. In around 20 days I get a check from my bank, because they messed up sth regarding a ingeritance I receive.

The point is, until then, I have no money to visit the doctor and I have no health insurance.

Would the doctor treat me, if I can get some kind of document from the bank confirming that I can pay the doctor in 20 days? Are there any laws against this or does it depend on the attitude of the doctor?

3 Lawyer Answers
Terrence H Thorgaard
Terrence H Thorgaard
Answered
  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • Freeeport, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: It's up to the doctor.

Charles M. Baron agrees with this answer

Charles M.  Baron
Charles M. Baron
Answered
  • Hollywood, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: No law against it, but you might not find a doctor's office willing to do that. Your county likely has a public health system for treating indigent (poor) people, so you have that option. Regarding the slip and fall, was it totally your own fault, or can you point to any problem with the staircase such as a defect, lack of maintenance, or slippery substance on it as the cause? If the latter, promptly seek a free consultation with a personal injury attorney.

Stephen Arnold Black
Stephen Arnold Black
Answered
  • Orlando, FL
  • Licensed in Florida

A: Did you slip on stairs that you owned or were you a tenant of a landlord who owned the stairs?

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