Montpelier Center: 238 State St, Suite 310 • (802) 555-0147
Mon–Fri 7:30 AM–6:00 PM • Sat 8:30 AM–1:00 PM 501(c)(3) EIN: 03-4718296
Transparent & Accessible

Pricing & Financial Assistance

At Catamount Health, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to quality healthcare. Our sliding-scale fee model adjusts your out-of-pocket costs based on household income and family size, ensuring that every patient in central Vermont can access the preventive care, behavioral health services, and wellness programs they need to thrive.

Our Sliding-Scale Fee Philosophy

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community health center, Catamount Health is committed to serving all patients regardless of their ability to pay. Our sliding-scale fee structure was established at the time of our founding in 2009 and remains a cornerstone of our organizational mission. The program uses federal poverty level (FPL) guidelines, updated annually by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, to determine each patient's discount tier based on verified household income and family size.

This model is not charity care; it is a deliberate, structured approach to equitable healthcare delivery that recognizes the economic realities of life in rural Vermont. Approximately 42 percent of our patient population qualifies for some level of sliding-scale discount, and no patient is ever denied care due to inability to pay. Our billing team works individually with each patient to identify the most affordable pathway, whether through insurance, sliding-scale fees, or our financial hardship program.

All sliding-scale determinations are confidential and handled with the same respect and dignity we bring to every aspect of patient care. Your income tier is reviewed annually, and you may request a reassessment at any time if your financial circumstances change.

Income-Based Discount Tiers

Discount percentages are applied to all clinical services rendered at Catamount Health. Tiers are based on the current year Federal Poverty Level guidelines for a household of the indicated size.

Discount Tier Household Income (% of FPL) Discount Applied Example: Single Adult Income
Standard Rate Above 400% FPL 0% Above $60,240/year
Tier 3 250% – 400% FPL 15% $37,650 – $60,240/year
Tier 2 150% – 250% FPL 35% $22,590 – $37,650/year
Tier 1 100% – 150% FPL 55% $15,060 – $22,590/year
Hardship Below 100% FPL 75% Below $15,060/year

FPL figures are based on 2024 HHS Poverty Guidelines for the 48 contiguous states. Family household thresholds are higher; contact our billing office for details.

Transparent Pricing

Visit Cost Estimator

Catamount Health operates on a sliding-scale fee model based on household income and family size. Use this calculator to estimate your out-of-pocket cost for common services. All estimates are pre-insurance; we accept Medicare, Medicaid, DVHA Green Mountain Care, and most commercial plans.

Insurance Plans We Accept

Catamount Health is credentialed with all major insurance carriers serving Vermont. We handle claims submission and prior authorization on your behalf. If you do not see your plan listed, please contact our billing team to verify coverage.

Medicare

Medicare Part A, Part B, Medicare Advantage plans, and Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policies.

Vermont Medicaid

Green Mountain Care / DVHA Medicaid, Dr. Dynasaur (children & pregnant individuals), and Vermont Health Connect Qualified Health Plans.

Blue Cross Blue Shield VT

All BCBSVT individual, family, and employer-sponsored plans including Blue EPO, Blue PPO, and High-Deductible Health Plans.

MVP Health Care

MVP HMO, PPO, and EPO plans including Vermont Health Connect marketplace selections and employer group coverage.

Cigna

Cigna Open Access, LocalPlus, and Connect plans. Network participation verified at each visit for out-of-state employer plans.

Self-Pay & Uninsured

Sliding-scale fees apply automatically. Our patient advocates can help you explore Vermont Health Connect enrollment, Medicaid eligibility, and hardship programs.

Financial Hardship Program

For patients experiencing acute financial hardship due to job loss, medical emergency, homelessness, or other extraordinary circumstances, Catamount Health offers an enhanced assistance program that can reduce fees by up to 100 percent. This program is funded through our annual Community Care Fund, which receives support from individual donors, foundation grants, and the Vermont Community Foundation.

To apply for hardship assistance, patients should speak with our Patient Financial Advocate during their visit or call (802) 555-0147, extension 3. The application process requires a brief conversation about your current circumstances and, when available, documentation such as a recent pay stub, unemployment determination letter, or self-attestation of income. Determinations are typically made within two business days, and care is never delayed while an application is under review.

How to Apply for Sliding-Scale Fees

  1. Complete the New Patient Intake Form online or in person at your first visit. The form includes an optional income disclosure section.
  2. Provide Proof of Income such as your most recent federal tax return, two consecutive pay stubs, Social Security benefit letter, or a signed self-attestation form (available at our front desk).
  3. Meet with Our Financial Advocate who will review your documentation confidentially, determine your discount tier, and explain your estimated costs for planned services.
  4. Receive Your Fee Schedule which will be applied to all visits for the next 12 months. You may request reassessment at any time if your circumstances change.

Questions about billing, insurance claims, or financial assistance? Contact our billing office at (802) 555-0147, extension 3, Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. We are here to help.

Ready to Get Started?

Schedule your first visit today. Our team will walk you through insurance verification, sliding-scale eligibility, and all available financial assistance options before your appointment.

Schedule Your Visit →