Preparing for Your Visit

The information below will help you prepare for your health center visit. Of course, it's always best to check in with your local health center regarding their policies and procedures.


Appointment Time:

It's good practice to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment.  
If you are a new patient, you may want to arrive earlier so that you can complete new patient registration forms.

What to Bring:

As a new patient, you will want to provide the health center with a detailed and honest medical history of your entire family.  Be sure to bring all applicable medical documentation, medications you are currently taking, photo identification, and your health insurance card if you have one. Health centers accept all forms of private insurance, Medicaid, and Medicare.

Are you uninsured?  Most community health centers across Florida have Certified Application Counselors on-site who can assist you in applying for health insurance coverage.  Every facility charges patients using a sliding fee scale based on family size and family income.  Be sure to bring proof of income (a recent check stub or letter from your employer) in order to apply your visit under the sliding fee scale.

Remember:
Be sure to keep all scheduled appointments with your provider and other specialists.  It's also important to give an update of any changes in your health during each visit.

Community health centers urge patients to take an active role in their health and wellness - follow your doctor's directions and ask questions!

Resources 

Good health is for you too! Patient guide to community health centers (English, Spanish, Creole) Farmworker Justice
Helps patients understand what your health center is, how it works and how you can help them. Downloadable in English and Spanish. NCFH
Question Builder App Developed by AHRQ to help patients and caregivers prepare for medical appointments and maximize visits. 
Good health is for you too! Patient guide to community health centers (English, Spanish, Creole) Farmworker Justice
National Center for Farmworker Health Patient Education Videos Helps patients understand what your health center is, how it works and how you can help them. Downloadable in English and Spanish.