paying medical bills. abc's paula faris tells us there is some help available. ♪ at last >> reporter: joyce ann houston has been a musician her entire life even has her own wall of fame. ♪ just last night she was on stage. today she is paying for it. like millions of americans, joyce has a chronic medical condition, hers is lupus. she preps her body for days before performing. her music her only escape and it is how she pays the bills. she still owes $25,000 for her original diagnosis and new bills from her ongoing care are mounting. financially where are you right now? >> in the hole. i could end up losing my house. >> reporter: when joyce and millions didn't realize is that over half of the nation's hospitals, the nonprofits, have money that they are required to give back to the community. often through what is called patient assistance programs. michelle katz says it is hidden money too many people don't know