Insurance

How to Find Low-Cost Clinics & Free Healthcare Services in Your Community

Struggling to find affordable healthcare? You’re not the only one. Roughly half of Americans find it difficult to cover healthcare costs. Between high premiums, large deductibles, and hefty co-pays, even insured individuals face big bills. Without insurance, paying for healthcare can be even more expensive. 

Fortunately, there are resources available right in your own neighborhood. In this guide, we’ll cover how to find low-cost clinics and free health clinics, as well as expert tips for making the most of free healthcare services if you don’t have insurance.

10 Ways to Find Free or Discounted Health Services

You don’t need to skip out on important health services just because you can’t afford the standard cost of care. Between private and publicly funded organizations, as well as charitable groups, resources are available to individuals who are uninsured or underinsured, and those with low income. Clinics are a good place to start, but there are plenty of initiatives dedicated to bringing quality healthcare to underserved groups.

  1. Start with Local Community Resources

Sometimes, the best place to start your search is in your own neighborhood. Community events and venues such as libraries, recreation centers, and town halls often provide information on local medical clinics. Visit these public buildings and look for bulletin boards — that’s where you’ll often find fliers on upcoming public health events. Social workers are sometimes on-site at these public businesses and can answer your questions about healthcare resources. You can also check the local public schools for similar information. Public schools — including community colleges — often organize events like health fairs and pop-up clinics.

  1. Check Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs)

Most cities and some rural regions have government-run affordable clinics known as Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). Often referred to as community health centers, these organizations offer low-cost and/or free services to individuals from low-income households. FQHCs are funded by Medicare, Medicaid, and CHIP, and receive reimbursement from these programs in exchange for providing low-cost or free services. They usually provide the following types of care:

  • Preventive care
  • Dental care
  • Prenatal care
  • Mental health services
  • Substance abuse treatment
  • Chronic disease management
  • Hospital and specialty care

FQHCs provide care to both insured and uninsured patients. Depending on your insurance status and/or household income, you may need to pay a small amount for services. 

You can easily locate FQHCs near you on the Health Resources and Service Administration website or the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics website.

  1. Search for Free or Sliding-Scale Clinics

Rather than charging a set price for services, sliding-scale clinics base their prices on an individual’s ability to pay. Most clinics operate on a tiered scale, which means the lowest-earning patients pay the least, and the highest-earning patients pay the most.

You will typically need to provide some proof of income, such as a tax return, pay stubs, or proof of unemployment. The clinic will calculate your fees, based on the information you provide them. In some cases, you might pay nothing at all. 

Need help finding a local health clinic that operates on a sliding scale? NeedyMeds and the National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics can help you locate sliding-scale clinics near you.

  1. Utilize State and County Health Departments

In addition to federal clinics, there are also state and county health departments (CHDs) that offer low-cost or free healthcare services to residents of the state or county. CHDs differ from FQHCs in that, they are local government agencies that serve their county residents with primary care services including:

  • Vaccines
  • Family planning
  • STI testing
  • Maternal care
  • Child health services
  • Mental health care
  • Primary care

You can sometimes find low-cost urgent care at your CHD, too. If you’re facing a non-life-threatening medical event, but can’t wait for an appointment with your primary care doctor, check to see if your local CHD has an urgent care center. The National Association of County and City Health Officials has a helpful tool for locating your county health department. 

  1. Leverage Online Search Tools and Directories

Not sure where to get started on your search for a low-cost medical clinic? Take advantage of these online tools to find clinics in your area:

  • Freeclinics.com: Just type in your zip code to find free, low-cost, and sliding-scale clinics in your area. 
  • Findhelp.org: Provides information on affordable resources including housing, food, and healthcare. You can even refine your search by the type of care including medical, dental, mental health, and more.
  • HRSA.gov: Type in your zip code to see healthcare centers in your area.

Always check a clinic’s website before visiting, to confirm their payment structure, and what documents you might need to provide to receive treatment and/or a discount.

  1. Ask for Recommendations from Social Services or Nonprofits

Your state’s social services department along with local nonprofits are often excellent resources for information on low-cost healthcare. Go to your state’s social service website to get in touch with a social service worker who specializes in connecting underserved members of your community with essential healthcare. 

Your local United Way or Salvation Army branch might also have information on free and low-cost clinics. Many of these nonprofits even organize regular pop-up clinics and wellness fairs, so check their bulletin board for fliers. You can also use Charity Navigator or GuideStar to find non-profits in your area focusing on healthcare.

  1. Look into Student-Run Clinics and Teaching Hospitals

Student-run clinics and teaching hospitals can be affordable alternatives to traditional healthcare facilities. In both settings, you will be cared for by medical students who are under the supervision of a licensed physician. However, these care options differ in important ways:

  • Teaching hospitals focus on specialty care: Teaching hospitals typically have a specific focus, and are best for those in need of a higher level of care for chronic and more serious conditions. 
  • Student clinics focus on primary care: Student clinics aim to provide accessible primary care, such as checkups, vaccines, and STI treatment. They don’t usually provide advanced treatment.
  • Teaching hospitals can come with costs: While they cost less than traditional hospitals, teaching hospitals might still collect a fee for their services. However, you can access some of the most cutting-edge technology and advanced treatment — at a fraction of the usual cost.
  • Student clinics are usually free: The main goal of a student clinic is to provide free primary care to underserved communities.

The easiest way to find a nearby student clinic or teaching hospital is to reach out to a local college or university with a medical program and inquire about these services.

  1. Explore Religious and Faith-Based Health Services

Most religious organizations offer some sort of community outreach healthcare program. In fact, you can sometimes access low-cost health insurance plans known as health share plans through faith-based groups. 

Reach out to your local church, mosque, synagogue, or other religious venue and ask about their healthcare initiatives. Some put on regular free or donation-based healthcare clinics that are open to all — regardless of religious affiliation. If you are an active member of your local religious group, you may have access to a community medical fund, designed to help members pay for critical care.

  1. Consider Telehealth Options for Lower-Cost Care

Looking for an affordable alternative to visiting a doctor in person? Consider telehealth visits! With or without insurance, virtual visits tend to cost less than in-person visits. Check with your provider to see if they offer virtual visits, which can be right for general health visits, mental health care, diagnosis and prescriptions for common infections, and other non-urgent matters. Some clinics also offer virtual visits.

GoodRx makes it easy to be virtually connected with a licensed physician who specializes in your concern and can even write you a prescription without a visit. Teladoc Health is another virtual platform offering 24/7, professional care. Be prepared to answer some questions about your health and insurance status to get started.

  1. Look for Mobile Clinics

If you prefer in-person care, but can’t make it to a doctor’s office or clinic, find a mobile clinic in your area. Mobile clinics are operated by licensed practitioners who travel to underserved areas to provide preventative and general healthcare. Their vehicles are often outfitted with medical equipment, enabling them to perform exams, do labs, administer vaccines, and offer other primary care services. Mobile clinics can be privately or publicly funded, so each one has a unique payment structure. However, they are generally affordable and made for low-income, underinsured, and uninsured individuals. You can use the Mobile Health Map to find mobile clinics near you.

Tips for Navigating Clinics and Healthcare Costs

Now that we’ve provided you with lots of information on how to find free clinics and low-cost healthcare, let’s make sure you’re prepared to make the most of it! So below are some tips for finding the best care facility/provider for your health and financial needs:

  • Understand your insurance plan: If you are insured, make sure you understand the full scope of your financial obligation and benefits — including what’s covered, and what’s not. Some low-cost clinics operate on a sliding scale, charging insured vs uninsured patients differently. Understanding your insurance plan can help you know what you’ll have to pay (if anything).
  • Identify providers before you need them: Identify affordable providers who serve patients of your specific insurance/financial status early. That way, you’ll know exactly where to go when issues arise — which can prevent you from choosing the costlier option when you’re in a hurry.
  • Inquire about costs upfront: Always ask about costs before receiving treatment (unless you’re facing a life-threatening emergency). This can prevent financial surprises, and even give you the chance to negotiate medical costs upfront.
  • Seek financial assistance: Most affordable providers, including teaching hospitals and low-cost clinics, have patient advocates who can help you find and apply for financial assistance. Some even offer in-house grants and financial aid.

Medical events can be stressful, but finding quality, affordable care doesn’t have to be when you follow these tips. For more information, check out our guide to managing healthcare costs.

 

Find the Perfect Plan 

Ready to find a health insurance plan that revolves around you? At Insurance ‘N You, we’re committed to matching you with the right coverage at the right price, so you can keep up with wellness and health goals. 

We make it easy to compare health insurance quotes for plans that fit your life. Whether you need to know if a certain screening is covered, or whether your doctor offers telehealth visits, just ask our AI assistant and get instant answers to your health questions. We also make it easier than ever to keep track of important documents with our easy-to-use digital wallet

At Insurance ‘N You, we’re all about you, so reach out today and get your quote. Quality healthcare is just a few clicks away! 

FAQs

Looking for more information on affordable healthcare? Find answers to common questions about low-cost care options below.

Where is the cheapest place to see a doctor?

If you’re insured, the cheapest place to see a doctor will likely be at an in-network provider’s office, where you’ll only pay a small co-pay (if any). Otherwise, FQHCs and county health departments often provide services at no cost or a nominal fee.

Are free clinics really free?

Some free medical clinics are truly free to all, while others base their payment structure on the patient’s ability to pay. At sliding-scale clinics, individuals who make the least pay the least, and those who make the most pay the most. Select clinics charge zero fees to uninsured individuals, and small fees to insured individuals. Before visiting a clinic, inquire about their payment structure to understand your costs.

Do I need insurance to go to a free clinic near me?

In most cases, you do not need insurance to visit a free clinic. Free clinics are usually designed to serve underinsured and uninsured individuals. Inquire with the specific clinic about their insurance requirements before visiting.

What happens if you go to a clinic without insurance?

If you visit a free clinic that is intended for uninsured individuals, you will most likely pay nothing or a small fee. However, if you visit a clinic that requires insurance but you don’t currently have a plan, you will have to pay for the full cost of care out-of-pocket, which can be expensive. Before visiting a clinic, ask if they treat uninsured patients.

Can I just walk into a low-cost clinic near me?

Many free clinics accept walk-ins. In fact, some only accept walk-ins and do not take appointments. However, if a clinic offers appointments, it’s a good idea to make one since attending as a walk-in could result in long wait times. 

What services do free clinics provide? 

Free clinics offer a variety of preventive and general health services. These vary by clinic but can include:

  • Vaccines
  • Maternal care
  • Mental health services
  • Exams
  • Labs
  • Dental care
  • STI treatment
  • Prescriptions

Check with your local clinic to learn what services they offer.

Can I get prescriptions at free or low-cost health clinics?

If there is a licensed physician on-site, most free clinics can write you a prescription. However, free healthcare clinics are typically run entirely by nurses, technicians, or medical students who cannot provide prescriptions. Check with your local clinic to see if they offer prescription services.

Are free or low-cost health clinics available to everyone? 

Free and low-cost clinics are intended for individuals who do not qualify for Medicaid or Medicare, or for those who cannot afford their copay, co-insurance, or deductible. Priority is given to individuals who are unable to pay. However, some clinics will accept anyone, regardless of ability to pay. It’s always a good idea to call your preferred clinic in advance to confirm whether or not they will treat you.

In addition to free or low-cost medical care, what other options do I have?

If you qualify for health insurance subsidies, signing up for an affordable health plan can be the best way to get quality, low-cost care. Individuals who qualify for Medicaid often pay very low premiums and co-pays, and sometimes do not pay anything at all. With insurance, you won’t be limited to free and low-cost clinics. Instead, you can get set up with a primary care physician who can oversee your long-term health goals. Plus, all ACA-compliant plans include preventative services like vaccines, checkups, and certain screenings for free. 

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