When a routine appointment uncovered something unexpected, one Upper Peninsula resident was faced with a difficult decision—wait months for covered care, or move forward immediately with potentially overwhelming costs. Thanks to Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital, she didn’t have to choose between her health and her finances. Earlier this year, Kathy B., a Marquette, MI resident, went in for a routine appointment with her OB/GYN. During the visit, her provider discovered a lump and recommended a mammogram and ultrasound right away.
There was just one problem.
Her annual screening wasn’t scheduled until July—months away. If she chose to move forward immediately, the tests would not be fully covered by insurance, leaving her responsible for thousands of dollars out of pocket. “I was going to wait the five months,” Kathy said. “But I just didn’t feel comfortable doing that.” After talking it through with her provider, Kathy made the decision to move forward sooner rather than later—but the financial burden weighed heavily. “As a single person working two jobs, with my son getting married this year, everything was coming at once,” she said. “It was really stressful.”
Finding Help When It Mattered Most
Through a trusted connection, Kathy was referred to Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital’s financial services team. There, she learned about the hospital’s financial assistance program, designed to ensure patients can access care when they need it most. She applied—and was approved.
“It took a huge load off of me,” Kathy shared. “Knowing I was going to get help with this, especially while waiting to find out if something could be seriously wrong, made all the difference.” Kathy described the process as simple, supportive, and easy to navigate, with staff guiding her every step of the way. “Brenda M. and the patient financial services team made it very easy. They were so helpful.”
Choosing Care Close to Home—Even From Afar
Although Kathy lives in Marquette, she chose to travel to Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital for her care after hearing positive feedback from friends. “I compared my options, and I decided I was going to drive,” she said. “I really love the feel of a smaller hospital compared to a bigger one.” The drive from Marquette to Manistique is approximately 90 minutes. From the moment she arrived, that decision was reinforced. “I felt so welcome as soon as I walked in. Everything was quick, professional, and personal.” Her experience made a lasting impression. “I’ll be coming here for everything I can moving forward.”
A Bigger Picture: Why Access Matters
Kathy & Her Children
Kathy’s story reflects a reality many patients face—even with insurance, unexpected medical costs can create difficult choices. “It really makes you think,” she said. “I’m lucky I have insurance, but when something unexpected happens, it can still be overwhelming. And there are so many people who don’t have insurance at all.” Programs like Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital’s financial assistance—and federal initiatives that support rural healthcare—play a critical role in keeping care accessible. As an independent, rural critical access hospital, SMH works diligently to keep costs fair and consistent. Programs like the 340B Drug Pricing Program play a critical role in this effort, helping offset the high cost of medications and ensuring patients can access essential services—from screenings to advanced treatments—without delay. “It’s a scary time when you’re dealing with something like this,” Kathy said. “Knowing there’s help available makes all the difference.”
Committed to Care, No Matter What
At Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital, stories like Kathy’s reinforce a simple but powerful mission: no one should have to delay care because of cost. By combining compassionate care, financial support programs, and a commitment to rural health, SMH continues to serve as a trusted healthcare partner for communities across the Upper Peninsula.
If you or a loved one have questions about financial assistance or accessing care, contact Schoolcraft Memorial Hospital’s Patient Financial Services Department at 906-341-3230
Email: patientfinancialservices@scmh.org
906-341-3200 
