Free Bed Fund assistance
Dear Editor:
The St. Andrews Free Bed Fund was established in 1938 by Dr. Gregory, Harold Bishop, Fannie Orne Perkins and others. The mission back then was to be able to have a bed at St. Andrews Hospital at no cost to the patient. Doctors could simply submit names of patients that might have a need. HIPAA security rules have changed and now each person seeking help with bills must apply to the fund.
Many local persons have been overwhelmed by a sudden illness that bring huge expenses for the uninsured and for those of us fortunate enough to have health insurance but with high deductibles and big co-pays. To meet these needs the St. Andrews Free Bed Fund has expanded its assistance to help any non-profit hospital (Examples: Mid Coast Hospital, Miles Hospital) or health services (Examples: Boothbay Regional Ambulance, Boothbay Region Health Center) in Maine. Financial support is available to any resident of Boothbay, Boothbay Harbor, Edgecomb and Southport.
A person must submit an uncomplicated one-page application to the board for consideration.
These forms are currently available at Hawke Motors, J. Edward Knight Insurance, Boothbay Region Health Center or by calling Sarah Giles at 207-380-5719. The signed, one-page form and any supporting documentation should be submitted to: St. Andrews Free Bed Fund, 6 Campbell St., Boothbay Harbor, ME 04538.
Decisions are made by the first week in February and again in August. Applicants will be notified shortly after.
Jeannie Hamrin
Boothbay