All Good News

Doctor Forgives $650,000 Worth Of Medical Debt For His Cancer Patients

January 2, 2021

An oncologist in Arkansas is forgiving the medical debt for nearly 200 of his patients with cancer.

Dr. Omar Atiq

Dr. Omar Atiq founded the Arkansas Cancer Institute in 1991. Unfortunately, they had to close their doors earlier this year due to staffing shortages, FOX 16 reported.

Last week his clinic sent out a holiday greeting card to patients.

The note read:

"I hope this note finds you well. The Arkansas Cancer Clinic was proud to serve you as a patient. Although various health insurances pay most of the bills for majority of patients, even the deductibles and co-pays can be burdensome. Unfortunately, that is the way our health care system currently works.

Arkansas Cancer Clinic is closing its practice after over 29 years of dedicated service to the community. The clinic has decided to forego all balances owed to the clinic by its patients. Happy Holidays."

Dr. Atiq says this has been an especially challenging year and it brings him joy to help his patients financially.

"Being sick is hard, having cancer is harder, and having cancer in this pandemic is devastating," said Atiq.

He says the bills totaled around $650,000 and now they are wiped away.

"I love them, I care for them, and I am glad I was able to do a little bit at this point for them," said Atiq.