Riverside County veteran hospitalized in Philippines amid dispute over medical bills

RIVERSIDE, Calif. (KESQ) A Riverside County veteran, Charles Hunter, remains hospitalized in the Philippines, where his family says a dispute over medical bills is preventing him from returning home for continued care.

The veteran became critically ill while visiting the Philippines, suffering what relatives describe as a severe foodborne infection. He is currently in an intensive care unit, on a ventilator, according to the family.

Relatives say the hospital has declined to release him because his California-based insurance is not accepted overseas and outstanding medical costs continue to grow. The family says his visa has also expired, complicating efforts to bring him back to the United States.

Family members are working to raise money to cover medical expenses and transportation costs. If you want to help you can visit this link.

News Channel 3 will be speaking with the veteran’s family later today to learn more about his condition, the financial hurdles they are facing, and what help they are seeking to bring him home.