Getting care when you have no insurance yet

6 min read · Written for: Veterans between coverage or with no coverage at all.

Community health centers charge on a sliding scale based on income. Many veterans qualify for a visit that costs less than a tank of gas.

1. Step 1

   Find a sliding-scale community health center

   Community and free clinics set fees by income, and 'no income' is a valid answer. Ask for the sliding-scale application when you book, not when you arrive.

2. Step 2

   Book the intake, not the specialist

   A primary-care intake gets you a chart, prescriptions, and referrals. Trying to start with a specialist usually adds months.

3. Step 3

   Bring a written medication list

   Names, doses, and how long you have taken each. Photograph your bottles. This is the single fastest way to avoid a gap in prescriptions.

4. Step 4

   Ask about the pharmacy discount program

   Many community clinics have a discounted pharmacy or a patient-assistance program with manufacturers. Always ask before filling at retail price.