Can’t afford COBRA insurance or a private insurance plan?  That doesn’t mean that you can no longer receive any medical care.  Here are some options for seeking out free and low cost health care.

1.  City and State Public Health Centers:  Many people are unaware that city and state public health centers in most states, offer either free of reduced cost health care.  The services are available in most cases for people who do not qualify for Medicare or other state health insurance programs and are free or work on a sliding scale.  This can include getting something checked when you are not feeling well, as well as STD checks and mental health check ups.  Sometimes these offices may also provide vision and other wellness care.

2.  Free Clinics:  Many major cities have free and low cost medical clinics that are funded by private donors.  These clinics, although often crowded, offer care to anyone and can be a good resource for anyone who needs care.  You can find a list of free clinics here.

3.  Planned Parenthood:  For women looking for healthcare related to their sexual or reproductive health, planned parenthood offers free and reduced cost services including check ups, STD screening, pregnancy tests, and bill control pills in many states.

4.  City and School Run Health Fairs:  Many cities and schools run health fairs on an annual basis where they offer free health related services including screening, vision tests, and more.  Many times you can find information about free and reduced cost health care at these fairs as well as have basic screening and check ups done.