I spent three weeks with my wife in a life-threatening emergency. During this incredibly stressful and emotional time, I faced an unexpected burden – the cost of parking. Every time I had to leave the hospital, whether it was to grab something to eat, fetch necessary items, or just to take a moment to breathe, I was charged for parking. This situation was not just financially overwhelming but also deeply frustrating, adding to the already immense stress of caring for a loved one in crisis. 

Hospitals are supposed to be places of healing and support. However, by charging for parking, they instead add financial strain on those who are already in distressing situations. According  to some reports, parking fees can range from $4 to $14 per hour in hospitals across the US, with some hospitals making millions a year from these charges. This practice disproportionately affects low-income families and individuals who, like me, spend long hours at a hospital in support of their loved ones.

The financial impact is significant for many families who are already facing medical bills and reduced work income due to needing to be present at the hospital. In a time where our healthcare system should extend compassion and relief, these parking fees act as an additional source of anxiety and distress. It is time for hospitals to prioritize the well-being of patients and their families above revenue generation through parking.

Exemptions for emergency cases, lower or no fees at all for long-term visitors, and accessible parking validation systems are feasible solutions that can alleviate this burden from countless families. Other countries, such as Scotland and Wales, have already abolished parking charges at most of their major hospitals, setting a precedent that must be followed.

Your voice is powerful. By signing this petition, you can urge our local and national authorities to take action against hospital parking charges and ensure that no person has to endure additional stress during one of the most challenging times of their lives. Let us advocate for compassion over profit, and push for the elimination of hospital parking fees to provide some much-needed relief to countless families across our nation. Please sign this petition and demand a change now.