Southwest Community Health Center

I’ve been living the under-​payed uninsured lifestyle basically, since, forever. I had OHP or private insurance through my mom for periods of time as a child, but once I turned 18 was SOL (hopefully the new reforms about keeping dependent adult-​children on family plans will stick around).
For people like me, the Coalition Clinics are life-​savers. SWCHC is a part of the Coalition Clinic Network. They provide medical treatment to people who don’t have money or health insurance to see a regular doctor and need to manage chronic or even acute health problems. It can take a few weeks to get an appointment, but if you do, it’s a blessing. They take payment on a sliding scale, and if you make under $ 800 a month they only ask for $ 5. I’ve been examined after injuries, had a physical and got an order for routine blood work (which is covered when they refer you) to manage a few health concerns I needed to keep on top of.
The clinic is staffed by volunteer doctors and medical interns from all the local medical groups (like OHSU, Providence, etc). Your doctor will vary from visit to visit. Services that are provided can vary based on what group is volunteering that month. I saw a few different doctors while I was going here, and each of them were friendly, professional and, most of all, compassionate.

For the broke and uninsured, SWCHC is where to get your health care. They’re open late afternoons and evenings on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and ask for a $ 15 donation– but you really should try to give more. My uninsured boyfriend has been seen many times by the doctors here, and they’ve always been willing to help. For the poor and uninsured of SW Portland, this clinic is a lifesaver. Everyone’s always really nice, and the service they provide to the community is fantastic.
You must have an appointment to be seen, and even then, be prepared to wait. Bring a book.