Manhattan is one of the most populous boroughs of New York. It is estimated that in the year 2000, it had a population of more than 1,537,200. Yet according to the Census Bureau, about 17.6% of families live below the poverty level, a fact that demands action with respect to health care. To this end, there are a number of free healthcare clinics in Manhattan, New York, which seek to serve those who otherwise would run the risk of going without adequate medical care.
Perhaps the most well known address for those in need of free health care is the Sidney Hillman Health Center. Located at 16 E. 16th St. on the third floor, this Manhattan facility permits needy families or individuals to call 212-924-7744 to schedule an appointment. The hours are Mondays and Thursdays from 8:15 AM to 7:00 PM, Tuesdays from 8:15 AM to 5:00 PM, Wednesdays from 8:15 AM to 12:00 PM and again from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM, Fridays from 8:45 AM to 4:30 PM, and Saturdays from 9:15 AM to 4:00 PM; an appointment is an absolute must! Even with an appointment it is wise to arrive very early as the line tends to get rather long. By far the busiest days are Saturdays and Mondays while the best day to visit is Tuesday.
Women’s services are provided at this location, as well as children’s examinations and also vaccinations. Other adult services, including men’s exams, will also be offered at this locale. In addition to the medical care, visitors will have the option of receiving social service referrals as well as mental health help. The Sidney Hillman Health Center is one of the centers with the most comprehensive list of services provided to the general population that Manhattan currently has.
If you are in need of help with sexually transmitted diseases, the Central Harlem Clinic at 2238 5th Ave. (137th Street) is the address where you may find help and treatment. In addition to STD treatments, patients may also request Hepatitis screenings and vaccinations as well as HIV testing and counseling. The hours of operation are Monday through Fridays from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM and Saturdays from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM. On the third Friday of each month the facility will keep Saturday hours, and it is usually not recommended to pick this day for a visit. Serving patients on a first come – first serve basis, it is wise to arrive early in the morning to be seen during the day. Prepare for long wait times!
Last but not least, children in need of dental health checkups and treatment may visit the Lower Manhattan Dental Clinic at 303 9th Avenue. Please call ahead at 212-239-1777 to schedule an appointment for your child and ensure that she or he will be seen on the same day as you visit. Open to children of low income families, the facility underwent renovation and expansion but since 2004 has been open and serving the public.
There are a variety of other free or very low cost clinics available in and around Manhattan, and to ensure that you receive the best possible service available, please check with a social services worker, a faith based organization of your choices, or New York City’s Health and Human Services Department.
