Glossary · Programs
What is uncompensated care?
Uncompensated care is care hospitals or providers give that is not reimbursed, often when people do not have insurance and cannot pay.
Definition and figures from HealthCare.gov glossary, checked October 23, 2026. This page explains the term; it does not recommend a plan.
Ask how uncompensated care works on your plan
Rivvi explains the term from public CMS, Medicare.gov, and HealthCare.gov sources and works through an example with your numbers.
Expand my textUncompensated care: the facts
| Item | Fact | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Common cause | People without insurance who cannot pay | HealthCare.gov glossary: Uncompensated care |
Compare and look up
- Medicare vs MedicaidSide-by-side comparison
Related terms
Questions
What does uncompensated care mean in health insurance?
Uncompensated care is care hospitals or providers give that is not reimbursed, often when people do not have insurance and cannot pay.