Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Community Health Center?
A Community Health Center (CHC) is one of many non-profit health organizations providing care to community members. Dirne Community Health Center welcomes all members of our community --- Medicare, Medicaid, Privately insured and Uninsured. We treat all age groups from pediatrics to adults and geriatrics. CHCs are unique in that they are led by clients/patients which make up a majority of the Board of Directors. CHCs are designed to provide increased access to health care services for people across the United States, and.may also be known as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC).
Can I come to Dirne CHC if I have health insurance?
Yes! Your health is important and you too can enjoy the high-quality care found with our providers. Also, through your regular visits, you are helping join the effort to provide access to health care for the uninsured.
Do I have to pay at the time of service or will you bill?
Payment is due at the time of service.
How much does it cost?
Your cost of a visit at Dirne CHC is competitive and designed to be affordable to increase access. Your co-pay cost will depend upon your insurance plan, and plans vary per individual. Dirne offers a sliding scale for low income and/or uninsured families. The chart below will help these families identify their tiered slide: Group 1, or Group 2.
| Insured | Group 1 | Group 2 | |
| Family Practice | as established with your Insurance Plan | $25 | $50 |
| Behavioral Health/Counseling | $25 | $50 | |
| Dental | $50 | 50% |
This scale below is based on Federal Poverty Level guidelines which change annually. These reduced fees are established upon your ability to pay, which are based on income and family size. Use the following table as a guide.
Family Size |
2009 Poverty Level |
Annual income less than this column,you are: GROUP 1 |
If less than this column, you are: |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $10,830.00 | $13,537.50 | $21,660.00 |
| 2 | $14,570.00 | $18,212.50 | $29,140.00 |
| 3 | $18,310.00 | $22,887.50 | $36,620.00 |
| 4 | $22,050.00 | $27,562.50 | $44,100.00 |
| 5 | $25,790.00 | $32,237.50 | $51,580.00 |
| 6 | $29,530.00 | $36,912.50 | $59,060.00 |
| 7 | $33,270.00 | $41,586.50 | $66,540.00 |
| 8 | $37,010.00 | $46,262,50 | $74,020.00 |
| 9 | $40,750.00 | $50,937.50 | $81,500.00 |
| 10 | $44,490.00 | $55,612.50 | $88,980.00 |
| 11 | $48,230.00 | $60,287.50 | $96,460.00 |
| 12 | $51,970.00 | $64,962.50 | $103,930.00 |
Do I have to show proof of income?
Yes or No. Proof of income is not required for services that are provided without the sliding scale. For low-income families that wish to access the sliding fee scale, we do require proof of income. It is best to bring income documentation with you to your first visit if you wish to have your visit discounted. Proof of income must be updated annually. We accept comprehensive tax returns, W2's, and pay stubs as proof of your income. If income verification is not provided at the time of your first visit, you have 30 days to bring in verification to receive our reduced rate. After 30 days you will be billed at the full amount.