What Are Sliding Scale Fees?

Sliding scale fees are flexible pricing structures that adjust the cost of healthcare services based on a patient’s income and ability to pay. Many community health clinics, mental health providers, and nonprofit hospitals offer sliding scale fees to help uninsured or low-income patients access necessary care.

How sliding scale fees Work

• Income-based pricing: Patients provide proof of income, and fees are adjusted accordingly.
• Applies to various services: Common in primary care, dental care, mental health counseling, and prescription medications.
• Not always widely advertised: Patients may need to ask providers if a sliding scale option is available.

Sliding scale fees and Medicare

Medicare covers many healthcare services, but some beneficiaries may still struggle with out-of-pocket costs. While sliding scale fees are not part of Medicare itself, some clinics and specialists who serve Medicare patients may offer discounted rates for services not fully covered.

How Solace can help

Finding affordable care can be challenging, but a Solace advocate can help identify clinics, specialists, and pharmacies that offer sliding scale fees. They can also assist with financial assistance applications and explore coverage options to reduce healthcare expenses.

What to do next

Need help reducing your healthcare costs? Find an advocate today.