In This Kansas Courtroom, the Hospital Dominates the Docket.

Rural hospitals in the United States, such as Pratt Regional Medical Center in Kansas, have become more aggressive in pursuing medical debt from patients. This is especially challenging in rural areas where residents are more likely to be older, uninsured, and facing financial stress. The hospital in Pratt County filed dozens of lawsuits against patients who hadn't paid their medical bills, resulting in a significant increase in court summonses and civil cases. The issue of medical debt collection has drawn attention nationwide, with some states implementing measures to protect patients from high interest rates and liens on their homes. However, the increase in debt-collection cases has also overwhelmed courts and law enforcement resources. [Extracted from the article]