Local clinics within the community serve as an alternative to pricey healthcare. Many services are offered at little or no cost to the patient. Those without health insurance can especially benefit from local clinics. Most preventative care, immunizations, physicals, screenings, and referrals are available. In addition, many local clinics may provide women and children\'s health services. They may screen for breast cancer, provide gynecological services, and possibly planned parenthood. Like the physician\'s office, all screenings are professional and confidential. Children\'s services may include general preventative care such as hearing and vision testing, well baby checkups, and parent education classes. Local clinics provide education and services regarding a variety of things. They may raise awareness about health and safety through counseling and health fairs. Nutritional services, domestic abuse, diabetes, smoking cessation, and guidelines for development are just a few of the things that local clinics may be able to help with. Local clinics are not limited to preventative screening and education. Several services that are offered in labs and the physician\'s office can be done at the clinic. Blood tests, x-rays, and non narcotic drugs and prescriptions, such as antibiotics can usually be obtained. Depending on the size and area of the local clinic some may even provide mild emergency care. Some local clinics are specialty clinics. This means that they only offer particular services. Local clinics may specialize in women\'s health issues, dental care, vision services, or children. Local specialty clinics are just as affordable as the other local clinics and provide high quality health services.

Care provided at local clinics is provided by professionals and qualified staff. Nurses, such as an RN, LPN, or nurse practitioner may provide much of the care offered. However, some services will only be offered by a physician. Therefore, almost all local clinics have a physician on site or on call. Local clinics are convenient. They may be located in various areas throughout the community and many have extended and/or weekend hours and will offer some services on a walk in basis. To avoid long wait times, it is advised that an appointment be made in advance though. Since many local clinics are state funded, patients who have Medicaid and/or Medicare may not have to pay out of pocket and those with limited income are usually eligible for a discount. Most local clinics will offer a sliding fee. This is a reduced, flat fee that is based on the patient\'s income. However, some services could be free of charge, depending on the service and when it is offered. Local clinics are not just for those who cannot afford services elsewhere. Payment is usually accepted from most major insurance companies as well. They serve a variety of clients and strengthen communities. Finding a local clinic is actually quite simple, they may be listed in the yellow pages and many will advertise their services on community bulletins. Services rendered by local clinics will vary, depending on the clinic and the area in which you reside.