What to Expect as a New Patient at the Clearwater Free Clinic
Taking the first step toward medical care can feel overwhelming—especially if you haven’t had consistent care in a while. At the Clearwater Free Clinic (CFC), our goal is to make the process clear, respectful, and supportive from the start.
Step 1: Complete the New Patient Registration Form
Begin by completing our New Patient Registration Form, which helps us determine eligibility for free medical care based on State of Florida requirements.
Once your form is submitted, our team will review it—typically by the next business day. If you are eligible, we will contact you to schedule the next step. If you are not eligible, we will do our best to connect you with other local resources. You may also explore community services at findhelp.org.
Step 2: In-Person Paperwork Appointment
If approved, you will attend an in-person paperwork appointment, which usually takes 30–45 minutes. You will be asked to bring:
Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence
Proof of current address
Florida Driver’s License or State ID
Social Security Card
During this visit, you will complete financial, demographic, and medical history forms, and provide information about previous healthcare providers so we can request your medical records. Before you leave, we will schedule your first provider appointment—typically at least two weeks out to allow time for records to be received and reviewed.
Step 3: First Provider Visit
Your first appointment with a medical provider will last approximately 45–90 minutes. During this visit, your provider will review your medical history, address current concerns, and discuss next steps in your care. Referrals for lab work, imaging, or specialty care are common and are often coordinated through our community partners.
Why This Process Matters
While our registration process takes time, it allows us to provide ongoing, comprehensive care—not just one-time visits. Patients receive care from providers who take the time to understand their full health picture, focus on prevention, manage chronic conditions, and support long-term wellness.
For many patients, this process leads to consistent care for the first time in years.
We’re Here to Help
We know getting started can feel intimidating. Our team is here to answer questions and support you every step of the way. If you’re ready to begin, completing the registration form is the first step. We look forward to being part of your care journey.