Politician called my bluff on Twitter re charitable clinics

[Cannikin]

I'm in Arkansas where the medicaid expansion has been up for debate. The Teabag politician line has been the standard "gov has no business in healthcare, the needy can turn to charity". I've been able to confront most of them by asking how the 100K people who's medicaid was at risk could get in touch with these mystery charities I was always hearing about. Well, today one of my state reps gave me a link with all the free clinics available in the state. Most look like primary care services, but I'm still not quite sure how to respond in a Twitter-length answer as to why free clinics are not an answer to insurance. They can't possibly cover people with serious or chronic conditions.

This is his list: http://www.needymeds.org/free_clinics.taf?_function=list&state=ar

BTW, the expansion known as the "Private Option" passed today, much to the chagrin of the local tea party.

[Enrique]

1. those aren't free clinics

look at the "fees" section for each clinic. Not one says "free".

[mercuryblues]

2. gov has no

business in healthcare. except when it pays for it through "charity"

who funds Amity Community Health Center

If your insurance plan requires you to pay a co-payment, co-insurance, and/or a deductible, you will need to pay at the time of your visit according to our sliding scale.
This is a health care center funded by the federal government. This means even if you have no insurance you can be covered. The center is also income based for those making an income. This health center can cover services such as checkups, treatment, pregnancy care (where applicable), immunizations and child care (where applicable), prescription medicine and mental and substance abuse where applicable. Contact them at the number provided for full details.

http://www.freemedicalsearch.org/det/ar_Amity_Community_Health_Center

[2pooped2pop]

3. yes the churches can help us raise that money

if this info graphic is correct. Looks like they can pay quite a bit for us.

http://www.democraticunderground.com/123019989