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Cook County's Medical Debt Relief Initiative (MDRI) has eliminated over $664 million in medical debt for more than 556,000 residents since its inception in 2022. This effort is a collaboration between Cook County and the nonprofit Undue Medical Debt. Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle expressed pride in the program's achievements, stating, "Medical debt continues to weigh heavily on too many families. It’s more than just a financial burden."
The initiative uses $9 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds to address economic stability and public health concerns. The county encourages local hospitals and medical providers to join this effort. Allison Sesso, president and CEO of Undue Medical Debt, emphasized that medical debt can prevent people from seeking necessary care.
MDRI purchases eligible debt at reduced rates based on account age and market value, effectively abolishing approximately $100 of medical debt for every dollar invested. Dennis Anosike of Saint Anthony Hospital praised the program for ensuring community access to healthcare without fear of cost.
Eligibility for MDRI requires living in Cook County with an income up to 400% of the federal poverty level or having medical debt constituting at least 5% of annual income. Qualified debts are automatically canceled without individual action required.
Testimonies from beneficiaries highlight the relief provided by MDRI. Raife M., Cecilia E., and Sabrina F. shared how the program alleviated financial stress caused by unforeseen medical expenses.
President Preckwinkle has also initiated other programs promoting economic security in Cook County, such as a guaranteed income pilot launched in December 2022 and a homeowner relief fund expected to start accepting applications in summer 2025.
Medical debt remains a significant issue nationwide, affecting over 100 million adults with an estimated total of $195 billion owed. People of color disproportionately bear this burden compared to white counterparts.
For further information about MDRI or to view geographic impact maps produced by Cook County’s Bureau of Technology GIS team, interested parties are encouraged to visit arpa.cookcountyil.gov/medical-debt-relief-initiative.
