5 places to find medical care for the uninsured
Posted
May 06 2009, 08:00 AM
by
Karen Datko
Rating:
This post comes from Tisha Tolar at partner blog Wise Bread.
With job loss on the rise, many people cannot afford medical insurance on their own, yet don't qualify for state or federal assistance. As a result, many will skip medical treatment to save money.
Your health is not something you can take lightly. With some planning and research, you can find ways to get more out of health care without spending more money.
Here are five places you can check out when you need medical help but don't have insurance to cover it:
Your family doctor. Many individuals do not realize it, but you can still see your family physician without insurance and be able to afford it. It may take some gumption, but approach your doctor about a reduction in rates because you are willing to pay cash. Many doctors are happy to work with you because they will likely get more money and get it faster than they would from insurance or Medicare.
Health care centers. These are not the free clinics you might have in your community but rather health care centers regulated and sponsored by the federal government. These centers provide primary, preventative and dental services to people of all ages, based on a sliding payment scale. This means you pay for services based on your income. Check out findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov to find a center in your area.
Planned Parenthood. Because Planned Parenthood centers often receive state funding and public donations, the fees for services may be even lower than normal, and you will typically be charged what you can afford, based on your income. You can receive family planning services, plus testing and treatment for STDs, Pap tests and other basic exams. Be sure to call first to discuss your finances if you do not have insurance. You'll be able to get a ballpark figure for how much it will cost prior to going to your appointment.
Convenience clinics. These are the walk-in health centers located in major retail chains like drugstores and Wal-Mart. Typically, these clinics are staffed by RN practitioners and physician's assistants who can treat and prescribe medications for colds, flu and infections. They can also help treat and do preventative checkups for conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure. The costs will vary from clinic to clinic and depend on your illness or treatment plan. Some places will offer a la carte services and some will charge a flat-rate fee for services rendered.
Free screenings. Many community groups, civic organizations and local hospitals offer regular free clinics for screenings of diseases like skin cancer, prostate cancer, diabetes, heart problems, high blood pressure, and other conditions. Check in your local newspaper or group newsletter to see what is coming up in your area and take advantage of the free (or at least discounted) health services. Early detection of many diseases can save your life.
Related reading at Wise Bread:
Money-saving book: ‘10,001 Ways to Live Large on a Small Budget'
7 dirty little secrets of local grocery stores
50 ways to squeeze more value out of health care
