For those NOT eligible for Medicaid, Medicare, or the Affordable Care Act, but still need help meeting their medical needs and expenses, there are places to turn to for affordable health care.
I’m uninsured. What programs are available to help with healthcare costs?
Federally Funded Qualified Health Centers (FQHC)Healthcare is available at local FQHCs using a sliding fee scale based on income. Also known as Community Health Centers, the FQHCs provide services such as internal medicine, obstetrics, gynecology, pediatrics, geriatrics, laboratory, podiatry, pharmacy, x-ray, dental, and mental health services. Care is offered at a much lower cost and is based on your ability to pay.
Find your local Community Health Center: https://www.ncchca.org/health-centers/find-a-health-center/
Free and Charitable Clinics use a volunteer/staff model to provide a range of medical, dental, pharmacy, vision, and/or behavioral health services to low-income individuals at no cost or at a small fee. No one will be turned away for inability to pay.
Free or charitable clinics restrict eligibility for their services to individuals who are uninsured, underinsured, and/or have limited or no access to primary, specialty, or prescription healthcare.
Find a Free Clinic near you: https://ncafcc.org/
Safety Net Dental Clinics are non-profit dental facilities where low-income families or individuals can go for dental care. Medicaid, NC Health Choice, and private insurance are accepted. Others will pay based on a sliding scale, depending on income and family size.
Find a Dental Clinic near you: https://publichealth.nc.gov/oralhealth/services/safety-net.htm
How can I find programs through NC 211’s search tool?
Visit nc211.org and type “Community Clinics,” “Family and Community Medicine,” or “Community Mental Health Clinics” in the search bar.
How can I apply?
Each service may have different eligibility requirements and applications. Reach out to your local service to find out how to apply.
Are there any changes in response to COVID-19?
Some services may be available via telehealth, rather than in-person visits.
Need more information?
Dial 2-1-1 (888-892-1162). Call specialists are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Last updated 6/1/2023
