Irvin,
Negatives like these can only remain for 7.5 years from the DOFD (Date Of First Delinquency). If they are older than that, then dispute them as they are too old to still be reported.
For any that can still be reported, try to get a goodwill deletion. Basically, you're writing a letter to beg forgiveness for your past transgressions. It's a bit like confession, or pan handling. If you want examples, hop over to creditinfocenter and search for goodwill. Lots and lots of examples. PM me, and I'll be happy to point you to several examples that I know worked.
You don't wanna copy goodwill letters word for word. You read 'em and study 'em and get a feel for it. Apply the principle to your situation.
Probably a couple of goodwill examples in this forum, but far more on CIC.
Did the collection agency for the medical bill ever state in writing the address to which they were sending you bills? If so, send a copy of that to the credit bureaus and to the original creditor. Tell them you were never properly notified. This is why ya NEVER pay a collection agency without making them validate.
You might still try sending them a DV letter. They might not respond, they might delete, or they might do nothing.
FTC complaints help, and over time the worst violators might fall because of an investigation, but by and large it does little for you. Do file an FTC complaint, but don't expect a lot and do pursue other action.
