Sliding Fee Scale
Health Insurance Assistance

Sliding Fee Scale

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Overview

At Clinica Sierra Vista, we believe that healthcare is a right, not a privilege. That’s why we’re proud to offer care to everyone, regardless of income, insurance status, or ability to pay. As a not-for-profit Federally Qualified Health Center, we offer a Sliding Fee Scale based on household size and income. Whether you’re uninsured, underinsured, or facing financial hardship, we’re here to help you access the care you deserve.

Our team will work with you one-on-one to explore options such as low- or no-cost coverage through Medi-Cal, Covered California, our Sliding Fee Scale program, or other financial assistance programs.

If you’re worried about the cost of care or have questions about your medical bills, we’re here to support you. Keep reading to learn more—or contact us today.

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About Our Sliding Fee Scale Program

Clinica Sierra Vista offers qualifying patients affordable healthcare through our Sliding Fee Scale Program. Based on your family size and income level, you may qualify for reduced costs on medical, dental, pharmacy, laboratory, and other services under the Clinica Sierra Vista Federal 330 Grant scope-of-service.


Program Details

  • Discounts are available for patients with incomes below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
  • Your discount is good for 12 months and can be renewed.
  • Clinica Sierra Vista sees all patients regardless of their ability to pay.
  • Visit our Assurance Card page to learn more..

How to Apply

Apply In-Person

During your next visit, please indicate that you are interested in applying for the Sliding Fee Scale. No appointment is needed to apply.

Bring the following items to any of our locations:

  • Valid photo ID
  • Proof of address (utility bill, lease, etc.)
  • Proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, benefit letters)

You can now apply for financial assistance using the Financial Assistance Tool on MyChart

Start by logging in to your MyChart account at mychart.clinicasierravista.org.

Then, click on Billing > Financial Assistance to begin.

You’ll need to provide the following information to complete the application:

  • Valid photo ID
  • Proof of address (utility bill, lease, etc.)
  • Proof of income (recent pay stubs, tax returns, benefit letters)

After you submit your application, Clinica Sierra Vista will contact you to follow up.

Health Insurance Assistance

The Health Insurance Assistance Program provides individuals and families with education about and assistance with the application process, case management to ensure successful initial enrollment, and annual renewal assistance. The program has certified enrollment guides stationed at all of our health centers. Visit our Health Insurance Assistance page to learn more.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)About Our Sliding Fee Discount Program

What services are included under the Sliding Fee Discount Program?

Eligible services may include:

  • Medical & Behavioral Health Visits: Basic lab tests are included with medical visits. Reference lab tests and consulting radiology interpretations are not covered.
  • Chiropractic Services: Visits are eligible for discounts under the program.
  • Basic X-Rays: Includes chest and extremities (arms and legs). Consulting radiology readings are not included.
  • Pharmacy: Discounts apply to formulary medications, available for up to a 90-day supply. 340B medications are provided at cost to the patient.
  • Dental Services: Basic dental care (emergency, preventive, and restorative): Discounts apply; supplies and lab fees are offered at cost. Major dental procedures (root canals, bridges, dentures, etc.): Supplies and lab fees are provided at cost.
  • Optometry: Exams are included. Discounts are offered on eyeglass frames and lenses. Contact lenses are not covered.
What is not covered under the Sliding Fee Discount Program?

The program does not cover:

  • Reference laboratory tests
  • Consulting radiology interpretations
  • Contact lenses
  • Cosmetic or elective procedures not deemed medically necessary
  • Any non-formulary medications
  • Services received from providers outside Clinica Sierra Vista
What if I don’t have health insurance?

Clinica Sierra Vista does not require insurance to receive care. We offer payment plans and income-based discounts through our Sliding Fee Discount Program. Our team can also help you explore options for no- or low-cost coverage.

Will I need to pay while my application is being reviewed?

No. While your application is under review, Clinica Sierra Vista will not request payment deposits or begin any collection efforts.

How long will it take to review my application for the Sliding Fee Scale program?

Patients who apply in person at Clinica Sierra Vista can have their application completed on the same day. When applying through MyChart, it may take 24 to 48 hours for the application to be processed.

Need an interpreter?

Clinica Sierra Vista offers free language assistance. Please notify a patient service representative when scheduling or during your visit.

Still have questions? We’re here for you.

Our Health Insurance Assistance team is ready to help:

  • Kern County: (661) 328-4245
  • Fresno County: (855) 867-7216

Program Objectives

  • At least 80% of interns complete program/degree requirements within 13.5 months (150% of planned program length).
  • Of graduates who seek employment, at least 100% are employed in nutrition and dietetics or related fields within 12 months of graduation.
  • At least 80% of program graduates take the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists within 12 months of program completion.
  • The program’s one-year pass rate (graduates who pass the registration exam within one year of first attempt) on the CDR credentialing exam for dietitian nutritionists is at least 80%.
  • 80% of employers, who return surveys, rate graduates as “satisfactory” or “excellent” for ability to work effectively with multicultural populations from diverse backgrounds.
  • 90% of program graduates work as entry-level Registered Dietitian Nutritionists in community nutrition.
  • 90% of graduates work in Central Valley community programs for at least two years after graduation.

Do I Qualify for WIC?

WIC is a program that helps families with food and nutrition. Call us at (661) 862-5422 or send a message, and we’ll help you see if you qualify.

Here are some ways you might qualify:

  • You are pregnant
  • You are breastfeeding a baby who is less than one year old
  • You had a baby in the last six months
  • You have a child who is under the age of five
  • You experienced a loss of pregnancy or had a termination

You also need to think about your family’s income. Here are the monthly income limits for family sizes:

  • 1 Person: $2,413
  • 2 Persons: $3,261
  • 3 Persons: $4,109
  • 4 Persons: $4,957
  • 5 Persons: $5,805
  • More than 5 Persons: Add $848 for each additional member

This income limit is based on 185% of the Federal Poverty Level, and these amounts will be effective from April 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.

Also, if you’re pregnant, the baby counts as part of your family size when figuring out if you qualify.

Get Care Right Away

Need care right away? Our health centers offer same-day appointments, and our walk-in clinics also offer extended hours. Whether you schedule ahead or stop by, we’re here to deliver fast, high-quality care when and where you need it.

Visit Your Preferred Location

We make it easy to choose the clinic that works best for you. Keep in mind that your preferred location may mean seeing a different provider. Either way, you’ll receive compassionate, expert care from our trusted team, no matter which clinic you visit.

See Your Preferred Provider

Our providers work across multiple clinics to make care accessible, so their location may vary based on availability. No matter where you’re seen, you can trust our dedicated team to deliver the high-quality care you deserve.