Financial Assistance

At Exeter Hospital, Inc., we understand that health care expenses are often unexpected and that paying for services can sometimes be overwhelming. We want to help. That is why we offer various programs for patients who are unable to pay for all or part of the cost of their care.

Uninsured Care Discount/Hospital Access Plus Program
This program extends a 20% discount off total charges to patients who may not be able to access or afford health insurance. This discount is not valid for patients who have health insurance coverage, including but not limited to: Medicare, Medicaid, or any other state or federal programs.

Financial Assistance Program
This is a community-based program for uninsured and under-insured patients who meet specific income, geographical, and other guidelines, and who do not otherwise qualify for any state or federal assistance. This program may fully or partially cover your inpatient or outpatient hospital bill. Patients must complete an application to qualify for this program.

The scope of our financial assistance program will provide a 20% discount for patients whose incomes are at 380% of the federal poverty level and a discount of up to 100% at 200% of the federal poverty level. The amount of the discount depends on the family income and number of dependents.

Exeter Hospital PriceLine
The hospital has a dedicated PriceLine to provide patients with cost estimates and charge information for procedures and services offered within Exeter Hospital. If you are interested in receiving an estimate or need additional financial assistance, call the PriceLine at (603) 580-7605.

Catastrophic Care Program
This program provides financial relief for those patients who do not qualify for our Financial Assistance Program, but who are faced with a substantial debt due to a serious illness or injury. This program is calculated based on a percentage of the patient's gross income.

Exeter Hospital, Inc., also participates in these statewide programs:

NH Health Access Network (NHHAN) - Download an application 

NH Medication Bridge

For more information, or to apply for any of the Financial Assistance Programs listed here, please contact a Financial Counselor in our Patient Accounts Office. All inquiries are strictly confidential.

Contact Information:
Exeter Hospital, Inc. Patient Accounts: (603) 580-6627
Hours of Operation:
Walk-ins: 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday–Friday
Phones: 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m., Monday–Friday

Can you tell the gender of my baby by the baby's heart rate?
No. Some say that the baby's heart rate is an indication of the gender, but we have found that it is not an accurate indicator.

How long will I be in labor and when will my baby arrive?
Unfortunately, there is no way of answering this question. Every woman's labor is different, and there are many different variables that affect the length, effectiveness and time of your labor and delivery.

Will the epidural slow down my labor?
Sometimes, labor can go slower after an epidural. Because you are inactive, in bed, and not able to walk, it may slow down your labor. However, with some individuals an epidural may actually allow for relaxation. This relaxation may result in the baby moving more quickly through the birth canal. It is important to remember that while the epidural will take most of the pain away, you will still feel pressure from the baby moving through the birth canal.

When can I get my epidural?
An epidural is anesthesia that is placed in your back. It numbs your body from the waist down, and relieves most of the pain of labor. Different providers have different thoughts about when the epidural can be done. Some providers require a patient progress to four centimeters before they get the epidural. Others will allow for it sooner in labor. We suggest that you discuss this subject with your provider.

How do I know when it is time to push?
When you are fully dilated and the baby is in position, your body will tell you that it is time to push. The urge to push is natural and you may find your body doing it with no direction from you what-so-ever. At this point, as long as your are fully dilated, your nurse will help you through this final stage of labor.

How do I push effectively?
Use your abdominal muscles, positioning chin to chest, and take a deep breath and push, while pulling your legs up to your chest. This is the most effective way to help your baby advance through the birth canal.

Will the pain get worse as my labor progresses?
Yes. The pain of labor is something that can be controlled with relaxation techniques, medication, or by means of an epidural. You may also choose to practice Hypnobirthing, which is taught in a class prior to delivery. Any of these options are available in the Family Center to make your labor as comfortable as possible.

When will my milk come in?
The average length of time it takes for breast milk to come in is 3-5 days. This varies from one individual to another. If you have any questions, please feel free to call one of our Lactation Consultants at (603) 580-4324.