Hospital assistance to patients, communities approaches $130B a year 

U.S. tax-exempt hospitals provided over $129 billion in community benefits in 2020, 15.5% of their total expenses and nearly $20 billion more than in 2019, the AHA reported Oct. 10. This includes $57 billion in financial assistance and unreimbursed services for patients in need, as well as programs and services designed to meet current and future community health needs. 
 
“This report reaffirms that hospitals and health systems play an unparalleled role within the health care sector, serving as vital pillars in promoting the health and well-being of their communities,” said AHA President and CEO Rick Pollack. “Particularly commendable is the manner in which hospitals responded to the challenges posed by the pandemic, intensifying their commitment to delivering essential care, services and programs necessary to confront this historic crisis.” 
 
According to a recent report by international accounting firm EY, every dollar invested in non-profit hospitals and health systems through federal tax exemption delivers $9 in benefits back to communities. 

For more information on how hospitals and health systems benefit their communities, visit www.aha.org.