Almost everyone experiences issues with their ears, nose, sinuses, throat or voice from time to time. But what do you do when they keep coming back? Otolaryngologists (ENT doctors) specialize in treating simple, complex and chronic conditions of the sinus, ear, nose and throat problems – in children and adults.
Your ear, nose and throat are closely connected to three of your five senses. Even a small change to one of these senses can have a big impact on your daily life.
Conditions free ENT clinics may treat
Ear
- Chronic ear infections
- Earwax buildup
- Hearing loss
- Perforated ear drum
- Swimmer's ear
- Tinnitus
- Vertigo and dizziness
Nose
- Chronic nasal congestion
- Deviated septum
- Loss of smell
- Nasal obstructions
- Nasal polyps
- Nosebleeds
- Sinusitis
- Snoring
Throat and Mouth
- Chronic strep throat
- Hoarseness
- Loss of taste
- Polyps or cysts
- Sleep apnea
- Speech problems
- Swallowing disorders
- Thyroid and parathyroid
- Tonsillitis
ENT (otolaryngology) services clinics may offer
- Ear surgery, including endoscopic ear surgery
- Evaluation and treatment of ear disorders
- Ear tube surgery
- Evaluation and treatment of nose and sinus disorders
- Hearing Aid
- Nasal and sinus surgery
- Sleep apnea treatment and surgery
- Snoring treatment and surgery
Federal Poverty Limits
The poverty guidelines are sometimes loosely referred to as the "federal poverty level" (FPL). Many free clinics set income limits, often at or below 200% to 300% of the federal poverty level. Limits vary by clinic, and this table does not determine whether you qualify.
| POVERTY LIMIT FOR THE 48 CONTIGUOUS STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA |
| Persons in Family |
Poverty Limit(100%) |
Poverty Limit(200%) |
| 1 |
$15,960 |
$31,920 |
| 2 |
$21,640 |
$43,280 |
| 3 |
$27,320 |
$54,640 |
| 4 |
$33,000 |
$66,000 |
| 5 |
$38,680 |
$77,360 |
| 6 |
$44,360 |
$88,720 |
| 7 |
$50,040 |
$100,080 |
| 8 |
$55,720 |
$111,440 |
| For families/households with more than 8 persons, add $5,680 for each additional person. |
Free ENT Clinics By State
Your state or local health department may know of programs in your area that offer free ENT(Ear, Nose, Throat) clinics.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Are free clinics really free?
Not always. The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics counts about 1,400 free and charitable clinics and charitable pharmacies in the U.S. Some charge nothing, while others ask for a small fee or use a sliding scale based on your income. Ask about costs before your visit.
Can free clinics write prescriptions?
Many can. A clinic with a licensed prescriber can write prescriptions, but services vary, so ask the clinic first.
Do I need an appointment to be seen at the free clinics?
Usually. Many free clinics see patients by appointment, and some take walk-ins. Call ahead to confirm.
I am an undocumented person. Will the free clinic see me?
It depends on the clinic. Some ask about legal residency and others do not, and some ask for proof that you live in the area. Call the clinic to ask what it requires.
How does the Affordable Care Act (Obama Care) affect the Free Clinic?
Even with the Affordable Care Act, 26.7 million people in the U.S. are uninsured. Free clinics continue to serve many people without insurance.
Is the Clinic staffed with licensed health professionals?
Clinics rely on licensed health professionals, often including volunteers. Ask the clinic if you have questions about who will provide your care.
