She Helps Patients in Financial Need

Here's how one financial counselor assists people who need help paying their medical bills

When Maxine Rhode started as a financial counselor 17 years ago, she never thought of the immense impact she would have on her patients' lives. As one of six financial counselors in the hospital, Rhode helps uninsured and underinsured people find a way to pay for their care. But that's the easy part. Sometimes, they need a little more help. Here are some ways she lends a hand:

It's not just medical bills.
Sometimes people who meet with Rhode need help with all of their bills, like rent and electricity. "They bring in stacks of them. I'll go over every one and try to figure out where they can get help to pay for them."

It's the little things that make a difference.
Often, Rhode's patients can barely provide for their families or buy food. "Buying them a cup of coffee or a soda is the least I can do. They light up over that small gesture."

It takes a little extra time and effort.
A young, homeless and pregnant girl once sought Rhode's help. But after helping the girl, Rhode couldn't just put her back on the street. "I worked late into the evening until I found her a foster family from my church. I even gave them a playpen I had for my grandchildren because they weren't prepared for a baby."

It's not about the thanks.
People often than Rhode with cards or homemade cookies. "Most recently, an elderly gentleman gave me a thank-you card. I knew he didn't have the $3.95 to buy it. I was grateful for the gesture, but I would have been happy with a smile and thank you."

It's about showing you care.
"Many of my patients do not have anyone in their lives to look out for them or do nice things for them. So, if one of my patients is in the hospital for whatever reason, I'll buy her flowers or a fruit basket to make her stay more pleasant."

It's about doing whatever it takes.
Rhode is a counselor at LVH-17th and Chew, but her patients sometimes need to travel to LVH-Cedar Crest for care. Many have no transportation, so Rhode offers taxi or bus vouchers. "I want to make their care as stress-free as possible. The less they worry, the more they can focus on getting healthy."

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