Community Health Centers:

A Community Health Center is just that, a health center based in the community. A large portion of funding comes from the federal government Bureau of Primary Health Care. Community Health Centers are non-profit or public health care organizations that serve uninsured or medically underserved populations. Community Health Centers provide their services to all persons regardless of ability to pay, and charge for services on a Board approved sliding-fee scale that is based on patients' family income and size.

In Ohio: go to the Ohio Association of Community Health Centers

Free Clinics:

Hope for the hurt. Healing for the suffering. Medications for the sick. Treatment for people who are ill. This is the work of Ohio's free clinics.

Using cost effective strategies, free clinics help people to get and stay well until they once again have access to health insurance. The free clinic movement began in the late 1960's to address the needs of the working poor and uninsured. Free clinics have developed networks of dedicated, talented medical professionals who volunteer their time to serve those who are unable to attain and maintain quality health care. Most free clinics operate during selected evening hours when volunteers are available. Prescriptions are filled through patient assistance programs, purchased medications and samples.

To find access local free clinics go to: http://www.ohiofreeclinics.org/CurrentMembers.htm

Other links:

Women's Health Services at J. Glen Smith Health Center

The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month

4-8PM

11100 St. Clair Avenue

Cleveland, OH

216-249-4100, ext. 7095

Offering: STD testing, Breast exams, cervical cancer screening, family practice services. Services are offered on a sliding fee scale.

Cuyahoga County puts out a booklet on Affordable Health Care Resources. It includes the services, contact information, and public transportation routes to get there. PLEASE NOTE: this guide incorrectly lists Neighborhood Family Practice as not having services for Children or Teens. NFP provides prenatal through adult services. Check out the online County Guide to Free or Affordable Health Care.

Find resources and publications on free and affordable health care on UHCAN Ohio's webpage.

Find a list of hospitals in Cuyahoga County.

Find information on the uninsured and their advocates here.