For Patients
We want everyone to get the care they need. If you have no insurance or not enough insurance, our sliding fee discount program can lower your cost.
Sliding Fee Discount Program
Our sliding fee discount program gives you a discount based on your household size and income. Here is how it works:
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Lasts Up to 12 Months
Apply again each year, or sooner if your household size or income changes.
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Use It at Any Site
See providers at any Spectrum health center.
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Lab, X-Rays, and Medicines
Get lab tests, X-rays, and prescriptions at a lower cost.
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Prescription Help
Already in the program and still can’t afford your medicines? Ask us about our Prescription Assistance Program.
Please note: if you get medical, dental, or behavioral health care from someone who is not your Spectrum provider, you may have to pay the full cost of that visit.
No insurance? You can still get care. Ask about our sliding fee discount program. It lowers your cost based on your household size and income.
What to Bring to Your Visit
To apply for the discount, bring:
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Application
A filled-out sliding fee application. Ask our front desk for one, or see the sliding fee page.
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Photo ID
A driver’s license, state ID card, or passport.
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Pay Stubs
Pay stubs from your last 4 pay periods in a row, or your latest income tax return.
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If You Are Self-Employed
Your signed and dated federal and PA state tax returns with all schedules, plus records of what you earn and spend.
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Social Security
Your award letter or benefit letter.
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Insurance Status
A PA Medicaid or CHIP decision letter, if you have one.
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Unemployment
Your award letter or a benefit check.
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Child Support or Alimony
A letter from the court or a check stub.
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Workers’ Comp
Your award letter or a check stub.
We will not give back your papers unless you ask us to.
Common Questions
Who counts as family?
Everyone in your household who shares money and bills. This can be any kind of family.
Who in my home can get the discount?
Anyone 19 or older listed on the application can get the discount if they qualify. Children 18 and under may be able to get PA Medicaid or CHIP instead.
How often do I need to apply?
Every year, or sooner if your household size or income changes.
What if I don’t want to share my income?
The discount is based on your income. If you choose not to share it, you will be listed as “self-pay” and will pay the full cost of your visits.
I have Medicare but can’t afford my costs. Can I apply?
Yes. Patients with Medicare can get a discount on copays and deductibles.
I am self-employed. What do I bring?
Bring your state and federal tax returns with all schedules. We use the “adjusted gross income” line to figure out your income.
My taxes are not done yet. What do I do?
If your income check is due between January 1 and April 15 and your taxes are not done, you can sign a form that lists what you earn, how often, and who you work for. We will keep your discount until April 15. Then bring us your tax return. If your income turns out to be different, you will pay the difference, or we will give you a credit if we charged you too much.
I filed a tax extension. What do I do?
After April 15, bring a copy of the extension form you sent to the IRS. We will keep your discount for 30 days based on the income form you signed. You must bring your papers within those 30 days to keep your discount.
Questions About Paying for Care?
Call us and we will help you. Walk-ins are welcome at all of our health centers.