Courtney Story highlights Cleveland's $165M medical debt relief with Undue Medical Debt

The City Council of Cleveland held a press conference on May 1, 2025, to announce a significant achievement in the fight against medical debt. The event highlighted the collaboration between the city and Undue Medical Debt, a nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating financial burdens caused by healthcare expenses.

Courtney Story, the vice president of government initiatives at Undue, addressed the audience, expressing gratitude for the partnership with Cleveland's leadership. She reported that, through their joint efforts, over $165 million in medical debt has been eliminated for more than 60,000 residents. This initiative aims to relieve the financial strain that often accompanies medical emergencies, emphasizing that medical debt is a burden that many do not choose but are forced to bear due to unforeseen health issues.

Story underscored the broader implications of medical debt, noting its impact on individuals' ability to seek necessary care and its disproportionate effect on marginalized communities. The mission of Undue Medical Debt is to eradicate such debts while also addressing the systemic issues that lead to their accumulation.

The organization has expanded its reach, now operating in over 25 locations across the United States, and plans to use Cleveland as a model for successful intervention in medical debt relief. The press conference served not only to celebrate the achievements thus far but also to reinforce the commitment to continue this vital work in the community.