New clinics can be found on seemingly every corner in Tallahassee. According to medical officials, within the past year more than a dozen new clinics and medical departments have gone up in Tallahassee.
Not only are there more clinics, but also most clinics are now making accommodations for low-income patients.
Publix pharmacy technician Julian Pullings said his company is in on the change as well.
“It does make it hard on our patients when there’s a rise in medical cost, but here at Publix we offer free antibiotics for pretty much any customer,” Pullings said. “I know over time, things happen. College students face financial issues at home, a large variety of insurance isn’t made available for low-income families, and students just want to stay updated with their health.
“I think these clinics and pharmacies are doing the best they can around here,” he added.
Tallahassee is taking the first steps toward making medical needs accessible and even more affordable for people. Although college students are not the main intent behind all of this, college students can benefit from this as well.
Students around the area normally rely on their physicians back home. This makes it more difficult for them to take care of their health care needs. A recent study showed that college students would rather self-medicate than make an appointment due to a lack of clinics in their college town.
“I think an increase in medical services and being able to afford it is very beneficial because I’m a college student at FAMU and it’s hard because I would have to drive two hours away just to go home to go to the clinic or my primary physician. But having clinics nearby me or the school makes it less of a drive more affordable and less of a hassle,” Chance Stokes said.
There are at least 10 free or income-based clinics scattered around Leon County. These clinics are for those without health insurance.
Bond Community Health Center as well as Neighborhood Medical Center offers checkups, treatment, pregnancy care and is a clinic that’s funded by the federal government. This means even if you have no insurance you can still be covered.
Leon County Health Department provides dental services for all Medicaid eligible Florida residents.
Federal law requires states to cover certain groups of individuals, so Medicaid is made available for low-income families, qualified pregnant women and children, and individuals receiving Supplemental Security Income in participating states. Those who receive home and community-based services for those in foster care are also examples of mandatory eligibility groups.
“I think building these facilities can affect Leon County cost-wise, but on the other hand, I think it’s great that Leon County is providing more medical services for those who have no insurance. Poor health should be the last thing on a child’s mind and even a young adult in college,” Britany Brown said.
If you would like to apply call the toll free number (866)762-2237 or visit the website at http://www.myflorida.com/accessflorida/