(BlackDoctor.org) — If you’re among the estimated 50 million Americans without health insurance, the odds of staying healthy are stacked against you. The uninsured have less access to care, are less likely to receive preventive care and are more likely to be hospitalized for health problems that could have been avoided. Ideal solutions don’t exist, but there are resources worth checking out.
1. Common Illnesses or Injuries
People with a severe cold, the flu or a sore throat, or those with broken bones or cuts that require stitches have several options:
- County public health clinics, community health centers or free clinics (see resource box for locations and contact information) provide care for free or on a sliding scale based on income.
- Private walk-in or urgent care clinics. They generally require payment at the time of service, but many list their prices at the front desk so at least you know what you’re getting into.
2. Chronic Conditions
Public health clinics, community health centers and free clinics also can help people manage diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and other chronic conditions so they don’t turn into health crises. People with chronic conditions also can be treated at walk-in clinics and by private physicians, though it might be difficult to find a private physician who will take an uninsured patient.
3. Prescription Medications
Patients at public or community health centers or free clinics are sometimes signed up for drug assistance programs for medications they need. But if you make too much money to meet their income requirements (and not enough to afford insurance), careful shopping can help.
Many major pharmacies including Walmart and Target provide free or low-cost generic medications, including antibiotics. Places such as Walgreens offer prescription discount cards for a yearly membership fee.
4. For Children
Free or low-cost immunizations and school physicals are available at public health departments. Walk-in clinics charge a reasonable fee for the service. Area hospitals team up with school districts and public health agencies to host back-to-school health fairs, which offer screenings and immunizations.
