Iowa Code § 263.20
Whenever a patient or person legally liable for the patient's care at the university of Iowa hospitals and clinics has insurance, an estate, a right of action against others, or other assets, the university of Iowa hospitals and clinics, through the facilities of the office of the attorney general, may file claims, institute or defend suit in court, and use other legal means available to collect accounts incurred for the care of the patient, and may compromise, settle, or release such actions under the rules and procedures prescribed by the president of the university and the office of the attorney general. If a county has paid any part of such patient's care, a pro rata amount collected, after deduction for cost of collection, shall be remitted to the county and the balance shall be credited to the hospital fund.
Iowa Code § 263.20