Is a Widow Responsible for her Deceased Husband's Medical Bills
My question involves collection proceedings in the State of: TENNESSEE
Dad was covered by Medicare and a supplemental insurance from the company he retired from. Medicare and supplemental have paid thier part, and Dr's & hospitals have sent bills for the remainder. When I informed the billing departments that he was deceased and left no estate, most of them said to disregard the bills and they stopped sending them.
However, one is adamant that his widow is financially responsible. She did not sign anything. What is the law?
Thx for the advice...
Re: Is Widow Responsible for her Deceased Husband's Medical Bills
In most states the widow can be held responsible under the doctrine of necessities. However, they will have to take her to court and that usually doesn't happen. They just sell it to a collection agency.
Re: Is Widow Responsible for her Deceased Husband's Medical Bills
Per my reference, Tn. is a state that does apply the "doctrine of necessaries" to the medical bills of the other spouse.