If you are someone who struggles to find adequate and affordable health insurance for your family, there is help available in your community that you may not be aware of. Government-run health care centers are available in most major cities across the nation. These clinics are primarily offered for the benefit of individuals who do not have sufficient insurance coverage, or who cannot afford insurance. Their services may be free, or some require a small copayment. While the services health care centers offer may be slightly different based on the needs of your community, you can usually find help in the following areas.
Urgent Care
Urgent care is a clinic that offers help for more serious appointments than just your run-of-the-mill doctor's visit. If you or your child has a bad cold or flu that needs to be evaluated immediately, you should visit urgent care. Most urgent care clinics also have x-ray machines and splints available for broken bones or strained ligaments. Non-life-threatening cuts and abrasions can also be treated here. If you go to urgent care with a life-threatening challenge you will be transported to the ER of your local hospital.
Dental Care
Free or low-cost dental care clinics can sometimes be difficult to find, though they are available in many states. These clinics may offer very affordable services for a small fee or they may be entirely free; it really depends on the dentist. Some dental services like root canals and tooth extractions can be urgent and painful, so it is a good idea to find where you can go for dental care ahead of time.
Prenatal Clinics
Every baby deserves to be cared for throughout its gestation. While some prenatal care can be expensive, most states offer free or low-cost care so that your baby can be born healthy, whoever you are. Even the cost of your delivery can be offset if you go to the right clinic. If you are pregnant and unsure where to turn, find a health care center near you.
In conclusion, if you do not have medical insurance and you cannot afford to purchase some, you may want to find a government-run health care center in your area. Though it may be government-funded, you will still receive careful and professional medical treatment and advice. Knowing how to find affordable health care is extremely important if you have children in your care, so make sure you know where to go when a need arises.