A Pakistani-origin oncologist in Arkansas forgave more than half a million dollars in outstanding debts form nearly 200 cancer patients.
The Arkansas Clinic, founded by Dr Omar Atiq in 1991, provided cancer treatments ranging from chemotherapy and radiation therapy and tests such as CAT scans. It had to shut its doors in February 2020 due to a shortage of staff.
Earlier this week, the clinic sent out holiday greetings and told patients that any outstanding bills would no longer need to be paid.
“I hope this note finds you well,” wrote Dr Atiq. “The Arkansas Cancer Clinic was proud to have you as a patient. Although various health insurances pay most of the bills for the majority of patients, even the deductibles and co-pays can be burdensome.”
“Unfortunately, that is the way our health care system currently works,” he added and informed patients that the cancer clinic was closing practice after over 29 years of service.
“The clinic has decided to forego all balances owed to the clinic by its patients,” said the note. “Happy holidays.”