There should be some place to go for medical treatment when you're uninsured

[MissMillie]

Frankly, medical treatment should be free, but that's just not the case.

Simple treatment--not an emergency. There are things that don't just "go away" that need prescription medication.

I need to see a doctor. I'm almost positive about the diagnosis, and it requires a prescription.

No insurance. No money.

Why is there no simple clinic you can just go to for help?

[underpants]

1. Indigent care

Other than free clinic (they do a ton of good) state teaching medical schools offer indigent care. UVA and VCU Health (MCV) here in Virginia.

[Demsrule86]

9. Everyone should have insurance period. Very few places have decent indigent care these days.

The new reconciliation bill will open Medicaid to those folks who live in states that didn't expand Medicaid...after that everyone needs to get insurance through the ACA or their employer.

[Voltaire2]

2. we've defunded public health infrastructure for decades

but that's ok. It ain't the police.

[Tomconroy]

3. Free clinics certainly exist. Try googling your area.

Unfortunately the prescription usually costs much more than the doctor's visit.

[Aristus]

6. There are free clinics that offer medications at no charge.

I used to work in a clinic funded through a very generous public health grant. And we kept a fairly large store of medications on hand to offer the patients. Everything from antibiotics for acute infections, to medications for chronic illnesses like diabetes, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, hypothyroidism, etc. And, of course, analgesics like ibuprofen, naproxen, meloxicam, etc.

It was so nice to be able to treat patients without wondering how they were going to pay for their medications.

[Demsrule86]

10. Sure...but they can't afford the Medicine...we need to get everyone insured.

[Diamond_Dog]

4. I feel your pain, MissMillie

I went for a year with no insurance not that long ago. Try and get a flu shot somewhere with no insurance! The drug store people look at you like you have two heads!

I agree that basic medical care should be free for everyone.

Does your state have Medicaid expansion?

I remember back in the ‘60s and ‘70s there used to be “free clinics” around. Have those all gone away, too?

[TexasTowelie]

5. Is there an indigent care program where you live?

I realize that it may not help for your immediate predicament, but if you qualify because of low income then you would be able to see a doctor and get medication (maybe with a co-pay). There are a lot of forms to complete and rules to obey, but it's better than not receiving any medical care.

I hope you can find the help that you need.

[Scrivener7]

7. My cousin has gotten good care with Medicaid.

[Grasswire2]

8. I don't know where you are MissMillie, or your situation..

...but I wonder if you are older you can call a phone number (I think it's 411) to get information about various services and assistance.

I would bet there's something in your area.

[Demsrule86]

11. Are there any Catholic charities or hospitals in your area...they are the only ones I have known to

really help... Wishing you a speedy recovery.