Without insurance, or with insurance that costs too much to use, you can still get care at a low price.
Community health centers (also called federally qualified health centers) get federal funding to serve everyone in their area.
They see patients with or without insurance, and regardless of ability to pay.
They charge on a sliding fee scale: the price depends on your income and family size.
Many offer primary care, dental care, mental health care, pharmacy services, prenatal care and care for children.
Many have staff who speak other languages, and all must offer interpreters.
Open findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov.
Type your address or ZIP code.
Call the nearest one and say: "I don't have insurance. Are you taking new patients? How does your sliding fee work?"
Photo ID (passport is fine).
Proof of income: recent pay stubs, a letter from your employer, or a tax return. If you have no income, ask what they accept, often a signed statement.
Proof of address: a lease or a bill.
The fee scale is based on income, not immigration status.
Free clinics are run by volunteers and charities. They often serve people without insurance. Hours can be limited, so call first. Search nafcclinics.org for one near you.
Local health departments: vaccines, sexual health testing, TB testing, and sometimes family planning.
Student health centers: for students, often included in fees.
Hospital financial assistance: if you need hospital care, ask about it early (see the guide on medical bills).
Pharmacy discount prices for medicines (see the prescriptions guide).
Telehealth cash visits for simple problems.
In a true emergency, go to the ER or call 911. The ER must check and stabilize you whether or not you can pay. Then ask the hospital about financial assistance and, if you qualify, emergency Medicaid.
Avoiding a doctor until a small problem becomes an emergency.
Not asking about the sliding fee. Always say you are uninsured.
Going to urgent care when a health center could see you for much less.