WEST BRANCH, Mich. – Free and charitable health clinics throughout Michigan are experiencing a notable uptick in patient visits as the cost of private health insurance continues to rise. Clinic leaders say they are gearing up for even greater demand once new Medicaid work‑requirement rules take effect in 2027.
Patient volumes climbing at local free clinics
At Ogemaw Hills Free Clinic in West Branch, the number of patients served during the first eight months of 2026 rose to 229, up from 149 during the same period two years earlier, according to data from Bridge Michigan. The clinic is part of a statewide network that provided care to more than 33,000 Michiganders last year.
Unlike federally qualified health centers, which charge patients on a sliding‑scale basis, these free clinics offer care at no charge and rely heavily on volunteers, charitable donations and community support.
Rising insurance premiums driving demand
Many Michigan residents report difficulty affording private coverage. Christine Cunningham, 58, told Bridge Michigan that she and her husband dropped his insurance after premiums rose above $600 a month – roughly half of his paycheck. Cunningham now receives care at Ogemaw Hills Free Clinic and recently declined additional hospital testing because of cost concerns.
Clinic officials note that a growing share of their patients are employed but still cannot afford conventional coverage. At FernCare Free Clinic, executive director Dan Martin said more than 80 % of patients have jobs, with some holding two positions. Their incomes are often too high for Medicaid yet too low to make private insurance affordable.
Upcoming Medicaid changes add pressure
Michigan’s Healthy Michigan Plan currently covers adults ages 19‑64 who meet eligibility requirements. Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, the state will impose new work or activity requirements for some recipients and shift eligibility reviews from an annual to a semi‑annual schedule. Eligible activities include employment, job training, education, volunteering and community service, with exemptions for disability, pregnancy or caregiving responsibilities.
State officials estimate that roughly 650,000 to 700,000 current Healthy Michigan Plan participants could be subject to the new requirements. The program will also reduce the amount of retroactive medical care covered before a Medicaid application.
Clinics preparing for increased need
Laura Schorn, office manager at Ogemaw Hills Free Clinic, said the clinic is already receiving calls from individuals who lost Medicaid coverage after a modest income increase. She expects more people to seek assistance once the new Medicaid and insurance rules take effect.
At St. Peter’s Free Clinic in Hillsdale, leaders recalled that before the 2014 Medicaid expansion, lines of patients stretched dozens deep. After the expansion, visits fell to about half a dozen per week, but clinic officials now anticipate a rebound as insurance coverage becomes harder to maintain.
Lynn Burkett, executive director of St. Peter’s, shared that her own insurance costs exceed $700 a month with a high deductible, underscoring the financial strain many families face.
Community support vital to clinic operations
The Gary Burnstein Community Health Clinic in Pontiac reported 9,518 patient visits last year and is on pace for 12,849 visits this year – an increase of roughly 34 %. CEO Mary Lewis emphasized that free clinics provide less expensive care, helping patients avoid emergency‑room visits and stay employed, ultimately leading to more sustainable insurance coverage.
Free clinics rely on volunteer doctors, nurses and pharmacists, medication donations from pharmaceutical companies, and charitable laboratory services from local hospitals. While these resources limit operating hours and specialist availability, clinic leaders stress that early treatment can prevent emergencies and preserve jobs.
Fundraising and volunteer recruitment remain critical
Ann Heler, former longtime director of Free Clinics of Michigan and current board member, highlighted the ongoing need for fundraising and volunteers. “You’re just on the hustle all the time,” she said, noting that the clinics must continuously secure resources to meet growing demand.
Despite the challenges, clinic staff remain confident. “We’re ready. We will be here,” Heler affirmed, reflecting the dedication of Michigan’s free‑clinic network to serve the community amid rising insurance costs.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
