Free/low-cost Health Clinics for the Homeless in Maryland

As the economy strains under the weight of the economic deficit, many people are finding themselves homeless, or in a state of poverty. The state of Maryland has several programs that are trying to address the needs of these populations by providing free clinics. According to a study done by the University of Massachusetts Medical School and mentioned in a Medline Plus article, an estimated 400,000 families – compromising about one million children – find themselves homeless each year in the United States. They frequently do not have insurance or access to medical care, or are unaware of the options available to them. The clinics listed below offer a number of options for homeless and low-income families.

1. Unite for Sight, compiles lists of free clinics around the United States for the homeless, low-income, and uninsured populations. They also provide free eyesight screenings and vision education programs at various homeless shelters.
3. The Bureau of Public Health Clinics maintains a health care for the homeless information resource center. It is updated quarterly so its content is pretty reliable.
5. In Baltimore, Maryland there is a program called Health Care for the Homeless. It provides primary care, mental health, social services, and addiction programs for the homeless in Baltimore city.
7. The Maryland Department of Health and Human Services offers free health insurance coverage for pregnant women and children.
9. Baltimore Medical Systems, Inc. addresses the needs of school children in schools that do not have a school nurse, and the homeless and uninsured populations of Baltimore city. They have several locations throughouth Baltimore City and county, and practice pediatric medicine, address mental health issues, have OB-GYNs, and provide eye care.
11. Chase Brexton Health Services, Inc. offers medical, dental, mental health, HIV, and counseling services for the gay and lesbian community in particular, and underpriviledged members of society in general, in the Baltimore and Columbia areas.
13. The Choptank Community Health System provides medical, dental and behavioral health services for all, regardless of their ability to pay. They serve Dorchester, Caroline and Talbot counties.
15. For families without health insurance, the solution is Family Health Centers of Baltimore. With offices in 5 areas around Baltimore city, access to care is easy, as is the ability to make an appointment.
17. Greater Baden Medical Services, Inc. offers health care to homeless shelters in the Prince Georges county area. They also provide medical, dental, and mental health services on a sliding fee scale based on family size and income.
19. Health Care for the Homeless has clinic sites in Baltimore City, Frederick county, and Montgomery county. Their services include primary and preventive medical care, addiction services, social work, and mental health care. Their mission is to help people get well and help provide avenues to get them off the streets and into productive society.
21. Vitamins for the Homeless provides high quality multi-vitamins for the homeless in Maryland and around the country.
23. The Maryland Family Health Administration keeps a list of homeless health clinics in the region and provides links to resources for homeless families.

Access to health care is a right for all and should not be determined by economic circumstances. Families that are able to stay healthy can find ways to rebuild themselves and get back into a productive life. These clinics are rely on government and private funding, and depend on the support of volunteers. Their work is extremely vital to the contribution to a vibrant community and should be encouraged on all levels. Donate some time, equipment, or money to help keep them going.