Healthcare
Essential Services
How to find doctors, understand the US healthcare system, and access care.
Types of Medical Care in the US
- Primary Care Doctor: Your regular doctor for checkups, prescriptions, and referrals. Schedule an appointment in advance.
- Urgent Care: Walk-in clinics for non-life-threatening issues (minor injuries, flu, infections). No appointment needed. Cost: $100-250 per visit.
- Emergency Room (ER): For life-threatening emergencies only. Very expensive ($1,000+). Call 911 for emergencies.
Finding a Doctor
Use Zocdoc to search for doctors by specialty, location, insurance accepted, and language spoken. You can book appointments online.
Community Health Centers (FQHCs)
Federally Qualified Health Centers provide affordable healthcare to everyone regardless of insurance status, ability to pay, or immigration status. They offer sliding-fee scales based on income.
Services include: primary care, dental, mental health, prenatal care, and prescriptions at reduced cost.
Resources
Zocdoc - Find a Doctor
Search for doctors by specialty, insurance, location, and language. Book appointments online.
Visit WebsiteFind a Health Center (HRSA)
Official federal tool to find Federally Qualified Health Centers near you. Care regardless of ability to pay.
Visit WebsiteZufall Health Center
Top-rated NJ community health center with Arabic and Spanish-speaking staff. Multiple locations across NJ.
Visit WebsiteNJ Primary Care / FQHC Directory
Official NJ Department of Health directory of Federally Qualified Health Centers across New Jersey.
Visit WebsiteNYC Health + Hospitals
NYC's public hospital system. Provides care regardless of insurance or immigration status.
Visit Website