Free Clinics Provide Priceless Care for Michigan’s Underinsured
| 2 min read
Although Obamacare is helping millions of Americans get health insurance coverage, the need for free and low-cost health care clinics still exists for those who find themselves underinsured, as well as Michiganders who are still without any coverage.
For example, a recent college graduate might select a policy without dental coverage so she can reduce upfront costs, since every penny saved helps her pay down student loan debt. But a painful wisdom tooth could have her searching for savings to cover the extraction.
Other individuals may not yet be eligible for health insurance at a new job until up to a 90-day waiting period is over. One rough check on the ice and an unlucky hockey player could be faced with out-of-pocket costs to cover his shoulder X-ray.
Thankfully, underinsured and uninsured individuals can get low cost or free health care and dental services at dozens of clinics across Michigan.
These clinics often rely on the generosity of medical professionals and organizations that provide vital services, support and funding. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s Strengthening the Safety Net grant program has provided more than $10 million to support clinics across Michigan since it was created in 2005.
Free clinics serve people of all ages, backgrounds and economic statuses. Here are just a few of the many Michigan clinics you and your loved ones can turn to in a time of need:
Detroit: Cabrini Clinic, 1234 Porter St., Detroit, 48226, Phone: 313-961-7863, Website: www.cabriniclinic.org.
Kalamazoo: Family Health Center, 117 W. Paterson St., Kalamazoo, 49007, Phone: 269-349-2641, www.fhckzoo.com.
Lansing: Care Free Medical and Dental, 5135 S. Pennsylvania, Lansing, 48911, Phone: 517-887-5922, www.carefreemedical.com.
Grand Rapids: Oasis of Hope, 522 Leonard Street N.W., Grand Rapids, 49504, Phone: 616- 451-8868, www.ohcgr.org.
Saginaw: St. Mary’s of Michigan Center of HOPE, 723 Emerson St., Saginaw, 48607, Phone 989-907-8775, www.stmarysofmichigan.org.
Traverse City: Traverse Health Clinic, 3147 Logan Valley Rd., Traverse City, 49684, Phone: 231-935-0799, www.traversehealthclinic.org.
Sault Sainte Marie: Community Health Access Coalition, 143 Arlington St., Sault Ste. Marie, 49783, Phone: 906-635-7483, www.upchac.org.
Marquette: Medical Care Access Coalition Volunteer Clinic, 1414 West Fair Ave., Marquette, 49855, Phone: 906-226-4400, www.upmcac.org.
CLICK HERE TO VIEW AN EXPANDED LIST OF FREE CLINICS IN MICHIGAN BY COUNTY.
Are you aware of other free clinics or low cost health care services available in your area? Let others know about additional resources by leaving us a comment below.
Photo credit: Alex Promlos
