So, somebody help me out here. Does this mean if I learn to speak Spanish and don't take my billfold that I get free health care?
You don't even have to speak Spanish. If you show up at an ER and don't pay they have to treat you or refer you to a clinic. This is free care.
They can come after you using a collection agency if they have your contact information, but why do you have to give them that?
If it isn't a life threatening crisis, in a lot of places you would be better off at a private urgent care center. They are usually staffed by former ER docs, the wait is shorter and the prices are lower.
"So, somebody help me out here. Does this mean if I learn to speak Spanish and don't take my billfold that I get free health care?"
I think we just completed the socialization of medicine...
Another angle....if the reimbursement is high enough, hospitals will compete for their "business".......
This takes a significant issue away from those who oppose illegal immigration - if hospitals get paid, they won't close, and this issue won't be used to oppose Bush's illegal immigration policy