This commentary is by Sarah Robinson, co-executive director of the Vermont Network Against Domestic and Sexual Violence.
At the Vermont Network, we support survivors of domestic and sexual violence, amplify their voices and build safer communities. We collectively represent 15 independent nonprofits that provide direct services to survivors and prevention programming in their communities.
S.27, a proposal to eliminate up to $100 million in medical debt for low-income Vermonters and exclude medical debt from credit reports, supports this work. Brought forward by Sen. Ginny Lyons and Treasurer Mike Pieciak, the bill is a critical step toward helping survivors achieve economic security, better health outcomes and a safer future.
Economic security is a significant barrier to safety and healing for survivors. As health care costs rise in Vermont, survivors are more vulnerable to accruing medical debt as a direct result of abuse.
A study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine estimates that the lifetime financial loss from intimate partner violence exceeds $100,000 per female victim, with health care expenses accounting for the majority of that cost. Research shows that survivors have higher health care costs, even years after escaping abuse.
An emergency room visit or mental health care can leave people burdened by debt through no fault of their own. That debt can damage their credit, making it harder to secure housing, find employment and escape an abusive partner.
Medical debt can also lead to worse health outcomes. Studies show that tens of thousands of Vermonters delay treatment out of fear of medical debt. This can result in more serious health issues, higher future medical costs and time away from work.
When someone is unable to pay their medical bills, everything else — including their safety — becomes less affordable. Nothing should hold survivors back from moving forward with their lives.
On behalf of the Vermont Network, we encourage the Legislature to support S.27, an investment in Vermonters’ safety, health and prosperity.
