What Is a Sliding Fee Scale Program?

When it comes to healthcare, cost can feel stressful. Many people worry about medical bills and may delay care. You are not alone. Clinic staff are available to answer questions and help patients understand their options. A sliding fee scale program is one way clinics help make healthcare more affordable for individuals and families with limited income.

What Is a Sliding Fee Scale Program and How Does It Work?

A sliding fee scale program adjusts the cost of medical services based on household income and household size. This program is designed to help patients access care while taking their financial situation into account.

Here is how a sliding fee scale program works:

• Patients provide proof of household income and household size.

• The clinic reviews a sliding fee scale chart based on current federal poverty guidelines.

• Fees are adjusted based on eligibility.

• Patients are responsible for the reduced fee amount.

  
  

A sliding fee scale program may be helpful for patients without insurance or for those whose insurance does not cover all services.

Why a Sliding Fee Scale Program Matters in Kentucky

Many families across Kentucky work hard but still struggle with healthcare costs. A sliding fee scale program helps reduce financial barriers so patients can focus on their health and well being.

A Plus Family HealthCare offers a sliding fee scale program to support eligible patients. This approach helps clinics serve their communities while following established program guidelines. Eligibility and availability are based on individual circumstances.

How to Qualify for a Sliding Fee Scale Program

Applying for a sliding fee scale program is usually simple. Patients can expect these steps:

1. Income Verification Patients provide income documents such as pay stubs, tax returns, or employer letters.

2. Household Size The number of people in the household is reviewed.

3. Application Process A short form is completed at the clinic.

4. Renewal Information is reviewed each year or when income, household size, or insurance changes.

   
   

Clinic staff are happy to explain the process and help patients through each step.

Benefits of a Sliding Fee Scale Program

A sliding fee scale program offers support beyond lower costs:

• Easier Access to Care Reduced cost concerns may make it easier to schedule visits.

• Support for Ongoing Health Needs Regular visits help patients manage ongoing health conditions.

• Peace of Mind Understanding payment options can help reduce stress.

  
  

Patients may use a sliding fee scale program for services such as checkups, preventive visits, and sick visits, based on clinic services and eligibility.

Tips for Using a Sliding Fee Scale Program

To help make the most of a sliding fee scale program:

• Bring current income and household documents to appointments.

• Ask clinic staff how the sliding fee scale program applies to services.

• Keep copies of completed forms.

• Schedule routine visits as recommended.

• Ask about added support. A Plus Family HealthCare offers access to Community Health Workers who may help with needs like transportation, medication assistance, or food resources, when available.

  
  

Taking the Next Step

If healthcare cost is a concern, learning more about a sliding fee scale program may be helpful. Clinic staff can answer questions, explain eligibility, and walk patients through the process. Talking with the front desk or care team is a good first step toward understanding available options.

Affordable care starts with a conversation, and support is available.