They also provide assistance with medications. You fill out the paperwork, and bring in supporting docs for your income, then they fill out paperwork which goes directly to the Drug Company. The company sends back your meds. It costs the patient around $10.00 for a 3 month supply.
With the further reductions in medicare reimbursements, even more doctors are declining patients. My husband's doctor sent us a notice that they would no longer accept Medicare Insurance due to the reduction in reimbursement.
A health center near your parents and grandparents may very well be the best option they have for care at this time. It is infinitely better than clogging the hospital emergency rooms with patients who actually just need primary care. It is also better than hanging out at the ER and potentially getting exposed to super-germs during your 8 hr wait.
Our local center is more like it used to be in the early 60’s before the government got involved. If you have no insurance, and not enough money to pay, you can set up a payment plan. If your income is near poverty, and you don't qualify for medicaid, they are allowed to give you a discount.
I also have used one at times for primary care. This one does not provide abortions or have any apparent links with PP.