How do urgent care clinics handle payment for uninsured patients?

Urgent care clinics can vary in how they handle payments for uninsured patients. Some clinics may charge uninsured patients for their visits. According to recent research, the charges can be significant for those without insurance. However, there are clinics, particularly student-run free clinics, that provide healthcare services to patients without charging them.

Types of Clinics

1. Regular Urgent Care Clinics: These clinics generally charge uninsured patients for services, and the cost can be high.
2. Student-Run Free Clinics: These clinics are often part of educational programs and may offer free or low-cost care to patients who do not have insurance.
3. Free Clinics: A nationwide survey shows that free clinics provide healthcare services at no cost to patients. These clinics often rely on volunteers and donations to operate.

In summary, while some urgent care clinics charge uninsured patients, others, like free or student-run clinics, aim to reduce the financial burden by offering free or affordable healthcare services.