According to the US Department of Health and Human Services, there are over 3 million cases of seasonal allergies reported annually in the United States. Getting the right medical care for your flu may not be that simple, especially if you are uninsured or underinsured.
While the Affordable Care Act has significantly boosted the number of Americans with insurance, millions remain uninsured. According to the Census Bureau, over 27.5 million Americans, including 77,000 children, lacked health insurance by 2018. Finding a no-cost doctor that can treat you without insurance can be challenging, and that’s the first hurdle.
According to a paper published under the Journal of the American Medical Association, the average cost per person for prescription drugs is $1,443. For the uninsured and underinsured, it can be hectic sourcing the drugs the doctor prescribed for them.
Medical costs vary significantly depending on the facility that you go to. Here are five ways to find a no cost doctor for affordable medical care.
1. Think Urgent Care Centers
There’s been a meteoritic rise in the number of urgent care clinics across the nation. These medical facilities can provide a higher level of care than retail pharmacy clinics. They are available for immediate emergencies and time-sensitive medical interventions. However, patient care is a fraction of the costs at an emergency room. You can access low cost healthcare as the urgent care center is a cheaper alternative to a hospital visit.
2. Find Direct Care Providers
Even without insurance, it’s still possible to see a no cost doctor through direct care providers. The physicians operate cash-only clinics that cater to the insured at a reduced cost. The concierge clinics often offer family medical care at a flat rate. You can visit the physician multiple times for approximately $70 a month.
3. Locate Walk In Clinics Around You
Walk in clinics offer medical care for more routine issues, with most accepting cash payments. You may not have to book an appointment to see a physician. You can see the doctor for your minor issues after you dropping at the clinic. Some offer care at reduced rates through a sliding scale model, while others may accept low cost health insurance such as Medicaid.
4. Consider Community Health Centers
There are over 1,200 free or charitable volunteer-staffed medical clinics in the U.S. Some health facilities receive federal funding and provide free or low cost health services. Each clinic operates differently to accommodate the medical needs of the community. For low-income families with no insurance, the free clinics provide access to a no cost doctor.
5. Find a Medicaid Friendly Doctor
Prices for healthcare appointments and procedures vary dramatically. Depending on your situation, you may qualify for Medicaid, Medicare, or the Children’s Health Insurance Program. Shopping around can help you find a Medicaid doctor that can help you reduce your out-of-pocket costs. You may also land clinics that offer low cost services with a fair price benchmark.
Healthcare costs in the US are among the most expensive globally, with much more strain for uninsured or underinsured citizens. Finding a no cost doctor near you can help you access the medical care you need. If you are searching for a Medicaid doctor in Hudson Valley, reach out to Cornerstone Family Healthcare.
