How to see a doctor without insurance

You can see a doctor without health insurance. Many doctors post their prices up front and let you pay directly. Here are the main ways to do it, with real prices where we have them.

1. Join a direct primary care practice

You pay a monthly membership instead of using insurance, and it usually covers your regular primary care visits. A typical practice starts at about $99 a month for one adult, based on 1,091 practices' posted prices. See direct primary care prices.

2. Choose a concierge doctor

Concierge practices charge a membership for more time and easier access to the doctor. Their starting prices are usually higher, about $150 a month for one adult in the practices we have checked. Some also bill insurance, so ask whether the practice works with patients who have no insurance. See concierge medicine prices.

3. Pay cash for a single visit

Many practices also offer a set cash price for one visit without a membership. Ask for the price before your visit, and ask what it includes.

4. Visit a community health center

Community health centers charge on a sliding scale, which means you pay less if your income is lower for the size of your family. You can find one near you through the U.S. government's Find a Health Center tool.

Tips to keep costs down

• Ask for the cash price before any visit, test or scan.
• Ask whether lab tests and medicines are available at discounted cash prices through the practice.
• A membership covers routine care, not emergencies or hospital stays. Many people pair it with a plan that covers big, unexpected costs.
• If you think you have a medical emergency, call 911.

Find doctors who list cash prices near you.