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In short Community health centers Ask what you need to bring Emergency care Other low-cost places to ask Keep costs down Rules differ by program Common questions SourcesYou can get care without insurance. Federally funded community health centers see anyone, whether or not they have insurance, and fees are based on what you can pay. Hospital emergency rooms must screen and stabilize anyone with an emergency, no matter how they will pay.
Community health centers
HRSA says anyone may use a community health center, with or without insurance, and that fees are on a sliding scale based on your ability to pay. They offer primary care and often dental, mental health and pharmacy services. Use the HRSA search below, and read our guide on community health centers.
Ask what you need to bring
Call ahead and ask what the clinic asks for. Many ask for proof of income to set your fee, such as a pay stub, and they may ask for ID. Ask the front desk plainly: "What do I need to bring, and what will a visit cost?" You can ask about documents and fees before you give any personal details.
Emergency care
CMS explains that federal law (EMTALA) gives everyone in the U.S. who comes to a hospital emergency department the right to a screening exam, and treatment to stabilize an emergency condition or an appropriate transfer, regardless of ability to pay. You may still get a bill afterwards. See what to do after an ER bill and hospital charity care.
Other low-cost places to ask
Free clinics, local health departments, teaching hospital clinics and the 211 help line can point you to care. See free clinics near me, teaching hospital clinics and 211 health help.
Keep costs down
Ask for self-pay prices before a visit. See how to ask for a self-pay discount, and typical cash prices on our visit prices, lab test prices and medication prices pages.
Rules differ by program
Eligibility for public programs like Medicaid depends on the program and the state, and the rules can change. For questions about your own situation, ask the program directly or a trusted legal aid or community organization.
- HRSA - Eligibility for low- or no-cost health care
- HRSA - Find a health center
- CMS - Your emergency room rights
Pymander is not a replacement for a physician and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Common questions
Do I need insurance to use a community health center?
No. HRSA says anyone may use one, with or without insurance, and fees are based on a sliding scale.
Can an emergency room turn me away?
If you have an emergency, federal law requires hospitals with emergency departments to screen and stabilize you regardless of ability to pay.
Do I need a Social Security number for a clinic visit?
It depends on the clinic. Call ahead and ask what documents are required for a visit and for fee discounts.
Can I use Pymander?
Pymander can answer everyday health questions and tell you when to seek care. It does not prescribe. Pymander is available in all 50 states.
Pymander is not a replacement for a physician and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.