Official Site of The State of New JerseyHealthcare options are available if you are uninsured, underinsured, or you are unable to pay. This page provides options for accessing free or low-cost medical treatment.
Federally Qualified Health Centers
Free or low-cost treatment is available at Community Health Centers, also known as Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), regardless of your ability to pay, your immigration status, or if you have health insurance.
FQHCs provide a range of services including primary and preventative care, immunizations, dental care, ear and eye screenings, mental health, cancer screenings, and more.
Find an FQHC near you with this search tool, this map, or 211's online list of community clinics.
The New Jersey Hospital Care Payment Assistance Program (Charity Care)
You may also be able to get medical care through Charity Care, a payment assistance program for uninsured or underinsured patients for inpatient and outpatient services at all acute care hospitals in New Jersey.
If you meet income and asset criteria, you may get medically necessary services at reduced fees or free.
To apply, go to the business office or the admissions office of the hospital where you are planning on getting or have gotten services. Eligibility is determined at the hospital where the medical service is provided.
For more information, call 1-866-588-5696 or email Charity.Care@doh.nj.gov.
Dental Care
If you need free or low-cost dental care, use New Jersey’s Dental Clinic Directory to find services at local health departments, hospitals, and federally qualified health centers.
The Directory is a central source of information on public dental services for people who may have trouble accessing or paying for dental care.
For help finding dental care, call 1-888-285-3036 to talk to a trained expert who can help you find the right programs based on your needs, connect you with services, and determine your eligibility. Specialists are available Monday through Friday from 9 am to 5 pm.
Vision Care
If you are blind or visually impaired, call 1-877-685-8878 to speak with someone at the NJ Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired (CBVI). The Commission provides a range of services including eye health, braille instruction, employment, independent living, and more for individuals who are blind or visually impaired as well as their families or caregivers.
Additional Resources
NOTE: We encourage you to look into the organizations on this list to see which is best for your unique needs as individual experiences may differ. If possible, speak with a trusted source for a referral when choosing a provider. This list is not an endorsement by the State of New Jersey.
Respectacle is an online database of high quality used glasses. You can search for a pair of donated glasses that match your prescription, and they will be mailed to you within 7-10 days for a small shipping fee.
Lions Club - Local Lions Clubs may provide eyeglasses or assistance for individuals with vision care needs. They may also know of other local resources in your area. Contact your local Lions Club for more information. Find a Lions Club near you.
EyeCare America - If you are over 65, have not been to an ophthalmologist in the last three years, and do not belong to an HMO or have VA vision benefits, you could qualify for a free eye exam. Learn more or check if you qualify with this screening tool.
New Eyes provides a free pair of basic glasses to people who have no other resources to buy them. Apply online or email info@new-eyes.org for more information.
