This page contains answers to some of the questions we hear most frequently. If you cannot find an answer to your question on this page, please contact us.
What is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC)?
The idea of community health centers grew out of the civil rights movement of the ’60s and President Lyndon B. Johnson’s War on Poverty. The central mission of community health centers like ours is that everyone should have access to medical care, regardless of their income or ability to pay.
Other criteria that set FQHCs apart:
- Qualify for enhanced reimbursement from Medicare and Medicaid*, as well as other benefits
- They serve a medically underserved area or population
- They offer a sliding fee scale to make it easier for patients to pay for services
- They have a quality assurance program and a governing board of directors
- This video gives a great background on the history of FQHCs.
How is it different from a free and charitable clinic?
While both are usually 501c3 nonprofits, free/charitable clinics are primarily privately funded and volunteer-based; in contrast, the providers who staff our clinic are employees of Community Health Systems, Inc. and we receive Federal 330 funding to offer our services specifically to a medically underserved area.
Can I see the same provider every time I visit?
As a patient-centered medical home, we encourage to have you establish a Primary Care Provider (PCP) at Beloit Area Community Health Center.
How can I pay for my care?
We accept most forms of private insurance, including Medicaid, Medicare, and Badgercare, along with most insurance plans.
What if I don’t have insurance?
We’re here for you! One of our patient financial counselors (most are bilingual) will sit down with you and review your financial information, such as your income level and family size. Based on your income and the size of your family, they’ll determine which rate on our sliding-fee scale is applicable to your financial situation.
Additionally, our certified enrollment specialists can help you find and enroll in the right insurance program for you and your family, including Medicaid.
How can I make an appointment?
By calling (608) 361-0311.