Orange County Wipes Out $43 Million in Medical Debt for 42,000 County Residents

Orange County, FL - In the third wave of the largest medical debt-relief initiative in Florida's history, Orange County has eliminated another $43 million in healthcare related financial burdens for 42,000 residents.

Through a partnership with the national nonprofit Undue Medical Debt, and funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Orange County has relieved a total of $559 million in medical debt, impacting 345,000 county residents.

"This historic initiative has transformed the lives of hundreds of thousands of Central Floridians," said Orange County Mayor Jerry L. Demings. "Relieving medical debt gives families the freedom to focus on their health and build a brighter future."

In August 2024, the Orange County Board of County Commissioners approved the partnership with Undue Medical Debt, paving the way for the medical debt relief initiative. The partnership funds the nonprofit to acquire qualifying medical debt, in bulk, at a fraction of its face value. On average, one dollar can erase $100 of medical debt.

"As I learn to live with my health condition, this gift from Orange County brings a sense of peace to me and my family," says Sheila Santiago, an Orange County resident who has multiple sclerosis. "Knowing that our elected officials care about us and our wellbeing means the world to me and my family as we plan for our future."

Orange County's medical debt-relief initiative does not accept applications. Instead, eligible debt is identified through partnerships with hospitals, healthcare providers and debt collectors, then purchased directly by Undue Medical Debt. Once acquired, the debt is fully paid with no tax consequences for the recipient. Relief recipients are notified with a letter of confirmation from Undue Medical Debt.

"At a time when families across Florida, and the country, face growing uncertainty about access to care, Mayor Demings and the Orange County Board of County Commissioners are demonstrating bold, community-minded leadership," says Allison Sesso, president and CEO of Undue Medical Debt. "We're proud to continue this partnership and hope this relief encourages recipients to re-engage with the healthcare system without fear of the cost."

To learn more about the County partnership with Undue Medical Debt and for a list of frequently asked questions, visit ocfl.net/medicaldebt