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Sara Lugardo

For many Americans, health care services remain dauntingly out of reach due to difficult financial struggles. Many families deal with these struggles by simply dealing with cold symptoms and other illnesses at home because of the inability to afford health care. However, immunizations for children and elderly patients are absolutely essential, and it can be difficult to find health care facilities that truly accommodate those in need. These providers are the best of the best when it comes to caring for patients who don’t have the out-of-pocket to go to a traditional healthcare facility. Receive check-ups, immunizations and vaccinations right in the Chicago area without sacrificing your financial stability.

(credit: Sara Lugardo)

Cook County Department of Public Health
5th District Rolling Meadows Court House
2121 Euclid Ave.
Rolling Meadows, IL 60008
(708) 633-4000
www.cookcountypublichealth.org

Located inside the Rolling Meadows Court House, this Cook County Department of Public Health facility offers a variety of free services including STD screening and treatment, family planning, child vaccinations, immunizations and dental care. Free pregnancy tests are administered and expectant mothers typically receive same-day medical card and WIC services. Eligibility for free services is dependent on income and family size guidelines. Call the facility prior to visiting to ensure proper documentation.

(credit: communityhealth.org)

Community Health
2611 W. Chicago Ave.
Chicago, IL 60622
(773)395-9900
www.communityhealth.org

Community Health is the largest free medical facility in Illinois. Its services include medical, dental, health and wellness, social and pharmacy. To qualify for services, patients must be without health insurance and income cannot exceed 250 percent of the Federal Poverty Line. This is not a walk-in clinic, and all potential patients must complete an intake form prior to making their appointment. The appointment is typically scheduled four to six weeks after intake.

(credit: Sara Lugardo)

Resurrection Health Care
Holy Family Hospital
150 N. River Road
Des Plaines, IL 60016
(847) 813-3510
www.reshealth.org

Holy Family Hospital is affiliated with Resurrection Health Care and accepts walk-ins in its immediate care centers. Those without insurance pay $80 upfront and receive a 50-percent discount if they are able to pay the remainder of the bill after seeing the doctor. Those who cannot afford to pay the full amount are still given a 40-percent discount and billed for the remainder with payments plans that fit most budgets. Resurrection Health Care also offers bilingual assistance and behavioral services.

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(credit: chicagofamilyhealth.org)

Chicago Family Health Center
9119 S. Exchange Ave.
Chicago, IL  60617
(773) 768-5000
www.chicagofamilyhealth.org

Chicago Family Health Center offers general, low-cost health care. Those without insurance are catered to based on income. There is a sliding scale program in accordance to income and family size. The center offers free HIV screenings and medical treatment and diagnosis. The Chicago Family Health Center has also taken measures to provide children who are on Medicaid with much-needed dental care. Chicago Family Health center also provides services for women’s health, support services and health education.

(credit: express-care.com)

Express Care
Jewel-Osco
2940 North Ashland Ave.
Chicago, IL  60657
(773) 525-4440
www.express-care.com

No appointment is necessary for this immediate care center. Prescriptions are be easily and conveniently filled within the Osco Pharmacy. It offers flat-rate costs for a variety of procedures and checkups. It also works with the underinsured and uninsured. However, express care is ideal for minor illnesses and injuries. It aims to make health care convenient and easy for all walks of life.

Sara Lugardo is a Korean American who thrives in writing about Asian community news in Chicago. She has a Bachelor’s in Communication and is currently working on her Master’s. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.