The proposed bill, General Assembly Proposed Bill No. 482, aims to enhance hospital financial assistance by mandating the Healthcare Advocate to create an online portal specifically for patients and their families. This portal will serve as a resource for individuals seeking information about financial assistance programs offered by hospitals. Additionally, the bill allows the Healthcare Advocate to share details about the state's medical debt erasure initiative on their official website, thereby increasing public awareness of available support.

Furthermore, the bill requires hospitals that have financial assistance programs to provide the Healthcare Advocate with a link to their respective program's website, ensuring that patients can easily access relevant information. The overall intent of the legislation is to promote awareness and utilization of hospital financial assistance programs and the state's initiative to erase medical debt, ultimately supporting patients in navigating their financial obligations related to healthcare.