Can I be liable for step-child's medical bill?

Question

Can I be liable for step-child's medical bill?

Anonymous Jan 12, 2020 3 views 1 answers

I carried my step-child on my heath insurance. The bio mom (without consulting) took the child to non participating provider and she made surgery for the Child (not an emergency) and is now being billed for the full amount. Since bio mom isnt paying, the billing dept has now decided to bill me, the primary policy holder. I do not have any legal or financial responsibility for this child nor have I ever. No where does it indicate I am responsible. Can the physician still keep me liable? They are threatening collections. Also, I'm divorced from that wife now (the date of service was during our marriage) and we did not have any court order between us. What should I do . How can I convince the hospital that I am not the father , never request the service and no longer married for his mom and never sing any paperwork .

Jay Hall · Answer 1 · 2026-06-15T19:14:47+00:00

You’re unlikely to persuade the hospital because you’re probably responsible for this debt. If this was not addressed in the decree, your only recourse might be to reopen the divorce — assuming the facts justify this (I can’t tell because the timeline isn’t well defined). Otherwise, if I’m understanding correctly and the debt was incurred prior to service, you’ll be equally responsible. If the creditor collects from you, you’d have to pursue reimbursement for half from your ex wife.

Can I be liable for step-child's medical bill?

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