Houston is a city that is unique in that it deals not only with the indigent that live in Texas, but also those who come in from across the border. Understanding the need for affordable and readily available health care so as to ensure the health of the entire population, Texas has taken a unique approach to the problem. Mixing private and faith-based organizations and permitting each to chip in to effect the greater good of all, those living below the poverty level have access to highest quality medical services when they need them – not just in emergencies.
Perhaps the premier organization is the Christus Foundation for Health Care, a catholic charity. Located at 6441 High Star, you may reach the organization at 713-779-6400. Serving a dual purpose, the center not only provides healthcare with a strong focus on women and children as well as expectant mothers, but it also helps those who are new to living in the United States and need help with English as a second language and who also require nutritional assistance, health education, and other services that will enable them to take care of themselves better. Contact the foundation for hours of service as they are changing according to needs in the community.
Tomorrow’s Bread Today is another faith based organization that provides a free clinic in the south eastern portion of Houston. Located at 10935 Scarsdale Blvd. and reachable by phone at 281-481-6260, the services provided range from wound care to basic medical services. Since there are no lab or x-ray facilities on site, those requiring more detailed diagnostic treatment will be referred to a participating community provider.
Ben Taub General Hospital is well known for its willingness to cater to those who are uninsured and in need of care. Located at 1504 Taub Loop and accessible by phone at 713-873-2000, the hospital is a part of the Harris County Hospital district and as such is committed to serving those who would otherwise not be able to visit physicians. It is important to note that prior to being permitted to access the services for free, you are required to meet eligibility requirements that must include prove of identity, family size, and income. It is wise to call 713-566-6509 to discuss the thresholds and understand whether or not you qualify for the free services provided.
Houston’s Department of Health and Human Services provides further information about available clinics. What is surprising in retrospect is the fact that even as faith based organizations offer free health care services, they are not as forthcoming with readily available facts such as addresses and hours of operation, demanding instead an upfront contact so as ascertain whether or not an individual is indeed qualified for their services. In the same vein, the state run hospital is very cautious about ensuring that only those who experience bona fide hardship will have access to their services.
When comparing the ready availability of these resources with those in San Francisco, there is a glaring disparity in the freely available facts that define California’s methodology of health fact dissemination when compared to Texas’ model. Granted, the influx of immigrants in Houston is frequently mentioned when citing the need for pre-qualifying steps, but it bears mentioning that California, too, is straining to keep up with the influx from the border. It is unclear which state’s heath care system is yielding better results, but it would appear that San Francisco’s methodology is most certainly more user-friendly!
