Being uninsured does not mean being without care. But the options vary widely in cost, convenience, and what they can handle. Here is the landscape.

Option 1: Telehealth membership ($29-$49/month)

Services like Medcare offer flat monthly memberships for live video visits with real providers. You see someone in about 10 minutes. Prescriptions are sent to your pharmacy. No insurance needed.

  • Best for: Routine concerns, colds, rashes, refills, follow-up questions
  • Cost: $29/month (Individual) or $49/month (Family, 4 visits)
  • Extra visits: $20 each
  • Limitation: Cannot do physical exams, lab tests, or procedures

Option 2: Urgent care (self-pay, $200-$450 per visit)

Walk-in clinics handle things telehealth cannot: minor injuries, stitches, ear infections needing close examination, and symptoms requiring immediate lab tests.

  • Best for: Things needing hands-on evaluation
  • Cost: $200-$450 per visit without insurance
  • Limitation: Expensive, long waits, not for emergencies

Option 3: Community health clinics (sliding scale, $0-$150)

Federally qualified health centers charge based on income. Some visits may be very low cost.

  • Best for: Ongoing primary care if you have no insurance and limited income
  • Cost: Sliding scale, varies by clinic
  • Limitation: Appointments may take weeks, limited availability

Option 4: Emergency room ($1,000+)

Only for true emergencies. If you might be having a medical emergency, do not hesitate. Call 911.

The smart combination

A $29/month telehealth membership handles most everyday concerns. For the occasional thing that needs hands-on care, urgent care is there. For emergencies, the ER is there. You do not need to pay $400 for every routine concern when a 10-minute video visit covers it for $29.

$29/month. One live video visit. No insurance required.
Sign up online and connect with a provider in about 10 minutes Monday through Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM Eastern.

Before you start

Have your current medications and relevant history nearby. If you are helping a family member, let them decide who should be in the conversation. If you may be having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.