Paytient: Interest-free credit for healthcare-related expenses

Have you ever put off needed care because you feared you couldn’t afford it?

Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield now offers Paytient, a new benefit designed to remove financial barriers to care. Paytient is available to ACA/Exchange health plan policyholders who are at least 18 years old.

Paytient is a special, interest-free credit card. It can help members and their families pay their out-of-pocket share of healthcare expenses over several months. It works like a payment account that doesn’t charge any fees or affect your credit score. You don’t even have to worry about a credit check!

This new program is the first of its kind in Arkansas. With Paytient, you can get the medical care or prescriptions you need, then spread out the cost over manageable payments for up to 12 months. Plus, you may even qualify for additional financial help.

When determining what payment you can afford, Paytient considers your income level and expenses. If you qualify, you can receive $500 if you’re a single policyholder, and up to $1,000 if you have a spouse and dependents.

The Paytient card can be used to pay your out-of-pocket share (deductibles, copays, coinsurance, etc.) for things like:

• Provider visits
• Medical treatments
• Mental health services
• Prescription medications

Once you’re approved, you can use the Paytient card or app to pay at the time of care, whether it’s a planned visit or an unexpected illness. After you pay, the Paytient app will help you set up a payment plan that fits your budget.

Matthew Vannatta, vice president of Government Programs & Enterprise Analytics for Arkansas Blue Cross, said, “Paytient gives our customers a unique way to make sure they get the care they need and the flexibility to pay for it over time.” This helps people take good care of their health without worrying about money, he added.

One happy member said, “This is so helpful to individuals who need life-saving medication and can’t afford it right away. Paytient lets you get what you need and make interest-free payments.”

If you want to apply for Paytient, you can learn whether you qualify without a credit check. Just share your estimated monthly income and expenses. To create your Paytient account and see if you’re eligible, visit https://www.paytient.com/arkansasbluecross. If approved, you will get your virtual Paytient card immediately, and your physical card will arrive in 7-10 business days. For more information or help, call 866-345-9591 or email hello@paytient.com.