Bluestem Health’s Sliding Fee Discount Program Helps Cover Medical Expenses

We understand that healthcare costs can be overwhelming, and this stress can be heightened when you’re balancing essential needs for yourself or your family. That’s why we’re committed to helping ease that burden. As a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Lincoln, Nebraska, we believe everyone deserves access to quality healthcare regardless of financial situation. One of the ways we make that possible is through our Sliding Fee Discount Program. This program is designed to reduce medical expenses for individuals and families with limited income.

What is the Sliding Fee Discount Program?

This program adjusts the cost of services based on your household size and annual income, specifically for those earning at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. What’s great is that it’s not just for those without insurance—it also helps people who do have insurance but face high deductibles or limited coverage. It’s one of the many ways we make care accessible and compassionate for all our patients.

Key Features of the Program

One of the top reasons people reach out to our Patient Services Team is to learn more about how they can get assistance when paying for their healthcare costs. Many people are surprised by just how much support is available through our sliding fee program. 

• Comprehensive Coverage: The discount applies to a wide range of services covered, including office visits, lab tests, vaccinations, co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance, and services not covered by a patient’s insurance plan.
  
• Affordable Fees: Depending on the service and your income level, fees are often significantly reduced. For example:
  • Office visits range from $30 to $70
  • Lab tests like Hemoglobin A1c and Urinalysis cost between $5 and $9
  • Vaccinations, such as the influenza vaccine, are priced from $10 to $14
  • Physical exams for children and adults range from $30 to $70
    
• Support Beyond Discounts: We also offer assistance with applications for Medicaid, the Health Insurance Marketplace, and other economic assistance programs. Plus, we provide interpretation services in multiple languages. We also have a Medication Access Program to help you obtain prescriptions at a reduced cost.

How to Apply

We make it simple. Contact our Outreach team at (402) 476-1455, and a member of our friendly team will walk you through the process. The support team assists with the application process and can provide estimates for what your services might cost based on our sliding fee scale.​

Working with Our Providers

All Bluestem Health’s providers participate in the Sliding Fee Discount Program. They’re not only here to treat your medical concerns but also to support you in accessing affordable healthcare. During your visit, they will talk with you about how this program can be helpful in managing your healthcare costs. 

We’re Here to Help

Navigating healthcare costs can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our providers and staff are here to listen, support, and work with you to find solutions that fit your life. The Sliding Fee Discount Program is just one way we’re committed to making sure you and your family receive the care you need.