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Healthcare in Los Angeles doesn’t have to cost a month’s rent. For those navigating insurance gaps, tight budgets, or the maze of confusing medical bills, affordable care isn’t a myth—it’s just hard to find. Cut through the noise: this list highlights nine clinics across LA where quality care meets real prices, no secret fees or judgment. These spots come recommended by locals, backed by community trust, and verified through firsthand research. Whether it’s a routine checkup, dental work, or urgent care, these clinics prove staying healthy in the city doesn’t require a luxury budget.
1.St. John’s Well Child & Family Center
Who it’s for: Families, low-income folks, and anyone needing basics like checkups, dental work, or mental health support
What you’ll pay: Sliding scale (they ask for your income, but no one gets turned away). Homeless? Free.
Locations: South LA, Mid-Wilshire, Compton
Why people go here: Fast appointments, no judgment, and they’ll help you apply for Medi-Cal if you qualify
(888) 893-8933 | Website
2. LA County’s “My Health LA” Clinics
Who it’s for: Uninsured LA County residents (regardless of immigration status)
What you’ll pay: Free primary care, meds, and labs. Seriously.
Locations: All over—try the Hollywood-Wilshire Center or Hubert Humphrey in South LA
Pro tip: Skip the phone tree—walk in early to avoid waits. Bring a utility bill for proof of county residency
Learn more
3. Venice Family Clinic
Who it’s for: Anyone struggling to afford care. They’ve been around since the ‘60s and don’t play games
What you’ll pay: Free or sliding scale (starting at $5)
Services: Doctors, dentists, therapists, even addiction help
Locations: Venice, Santa Monica, Culver City
Heads up: Demand is high, so book appointments ASAP
(310) 392-8636 | Website
4. Northeast Valley Health Corporation (San Fernando Valley)
Who it’s for: Valley residents, Spanish speakers, moms needing WIC
What you’ll pay: $20–$100 per visit (based on income)
Services: Doctors, dentists, cheap meds, baby formula help
Locations: Pacoima, Van Nuys, San Fernando
Why it works: Bilingual staff and same-day sick visits
(818) 898-1388 | Website
5. JWCH Institute (Skid Row + East LA)
Who it’s for: People experiencing homelessness, HIV+ patients, or those battling addiction
What you’ll pay: Sliding scale ($20+). Free HIV care
Services: Needles exchanged? Suboxone? Wound care? They’ve got you
Locations: Skid Row, Boyle Heights, Lynwood
Real talk: They meet you where you’re at, no pressure
(213) 749-1441 | Website
6. UCLA’s Homeless Healthcare Van
Who it’s for: Anyone living on the streets or in a shelter
What you’ll pay: Free. No ID, no problem
Services: Vaccines, wound care, flu shots—they roll up to you
Where to find them: Skid Row, West LA, Van Nuys (check their schedule online)
UCLA Health Homeless Care
7. Eisner Health (Downtown LA)
Who it’s for: Foster youth, families, or anyone needing a regular doctor
What you’ll pay: $25–$100 sliding scale. Foster kids: free
Perks: Cheap pharmacy on-site (like $4 antibiotics)
Locations: DTLA, Huntington Park, Van Nuys
(213) 747-5542 | Website
8.APHCV (Koreatown/East Hollywood)
Who it’s for: Asian/Pacific Islander seniors, immigrants, or anyone needing language help (Korean, Thai, Mandarin, etc.)
What you’ll pay: Sliding scale. Accepts Medi-Cal
Services: Diabetes care, blood pressure checks, flu shots
Locations: Koreatown, East Hollywood
(323) 653-1990 | Website
9.Planned Parenthood LA
Who it’s for: Anyone needing birth control, Plan B, STI tests, or abortions
What you’ll pay: Sliding scale (call for pricing). Medi-Cal accepted
Privacy promise: No parental consent needed for teens
Locations: Highland Park, Inglewood, DTLA
(800) 576-5544 | Website
How to Actually Get Help
- Be honest about your income. These clinics exist to help, not gatekeep.
- Ask about “discount pharmacies” nearby. Many clinics partner with spots like Cost Plus Drugs.
- No Medi-Cal? Apply at CoveredCA.com—it’s free if you’re low-income.
Bottom line: LA’s safety net is messy, but these clinics are the real deal. Call ahead, show up early, and don’t let cost stop you from getting care. You’ve got options. 💪
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