DOH-Sarasota locations offering Sarasota Healthcare Access (SHCA) Services:

• William L. Little Health & Human Services Center (downtown Sarasota)
• North Port Health Center

Program Description:  Sarasota Healthcare Access (SHCA) is a referral system for people who need health care but lack health insurance or are on Medicaid. Individuals who have recently been hospitalized or used an ER for a minor illness are referred to SHCA. If these individuals lack a primary health care provider, SHCA staff assist them in establishing a medical home at DOH-Sarasota. The program is funded through the Medicaid Low-Income Pool (LIP) managed by the Florida Department of Health.

SHCA Services:

• Helps patients establish a "medical home" at DOH-Sarasota that includes health care, medications and dental services
• Assists with community referrals
• Offers education and support for patients with chronic diseases
• Provides access to on-site mental/behavioral health services

Who can receive SHCA services?  Individuals who receive SHCA services:

• Have been hospitalized or treated in an area emergency room within the last 30 days or referred by a free clinic
• Do not have a regular source for on-going health care
• Are low-income and uninsured (or Medicaid-eligible)

Eligibility and Costs:  SHCA case management services are provided at no cost. The cost of health care depends on your ability to pay as determined by our Eligibility office.  Services are available on a sliding fee scale based on family size and income. Health care is available to all eligible persons regardless of place of residence.

To obtain SHCA services, follow these simple steps:

• During your ER or hospital visit, ask a hospital case manager to refer you to SHCA
• If you have been discharged, go to the nearest DOH-Sarasota Eligibility Office
• Ask to speak with a SHCA case manager, who may make an appointment for your health care services
• Bring your prescribed or over-the-counter medications, plus any new prescriptions, to your appointment

For established DOH-Sarasota patients only:

If you have already established DOH-Sarasota as your medical home, SHCA can still help you with:

• Referrals to community resources
• Assistance with chronic disease (diabetes, cardiovascular and respiratory diseases) management with a Registered Nurse
• Mental health and substance abuse counseling. Assessment and management for mental health-related medications
• Help accessing free or low-cost medications not available from DOH-Sarasota's pharmacy

Further Information:

• Contact Us