Common Questions

Common Questions

General Information

What is Premier Community Health Care Group, Inc.?

Premier Community HealthCare is a 501(c)(3) non-profit Community Health Center. The organization also qualifies as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) providing quality medical, dental, and behavioral healthcare to families and individuals of all ages. Patients experiencing financial constraints will not be denied access to services. The rule under which the Bureau of Primary Health Care administers our funding requires us to make every effort to obtain the appropriate payment from our patients. Recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA), Premier Community HealthCare is committed to the Patient Centered Medical Home (PCMH2011).

What is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC)?

FQHCs are “safety net” providers such as community health centers, public housing centers, and programs serving migrants and the homeless. The main purpose of the FQHC Program is to enhance the provision of primary care services in underserved urban and rural communities.

Do you take insurance?

Yes. We accept most private insurance plans as well as Medicaid, Medicare, and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP). Our goal is to help you access healthcare and maintain wellness regardless of your insurance or ability to pay. If you have financial concerns about receiving services, please ask to see a Patient Services Representative.

What is a PCP?

PCP means Primary Care Provider. Working with a PCP provides better quality and improved care coordination. Your provider and his or her team will be more informed and will provide better follow-up care. We can all benefit from having a PCP, but especially those with chronic conditions.

How do I choose my PCP?

When you call to establish care at Premier Community HealthCare, our call center can assist you in finding a provider who is the best fit for you. Please visit the Provider tab on this website to learn more about our medical team and their areas of specialty.

How can I access my medical records?

For a copy of your medical records or to send files to another provider, our front office staff can provide the correct form of disclosure. The Health Information Medical System department handles these requests. Medical records are sent to other medical providers at no cost, but if you would like a separate copy, a $5.00 fee applies.

Contact and Appointment Information

Do I need an appointment?

Yes. Patients are seen by appointment only. Please call the health center at 352-518-2000 to schedule yours today! Same day visits are available.

What information is needed to schedule an appointment?

Call us at 352-518-2000 to schedule an appointment at any of our health centers. Give the scheduler the name of your primary care provider if you have one and the reason for your visit. If you have any disability needs, please let us know when you schedule your appointment. Please arrive 15 minutes early for your appointment in order to avoid a longer wait time.

What is the average cost of an office visit?

If you have insurance and it requires a co-pay, you will be asked to pay that amount at the time of your visit. We accept cash, money orders, and credit cards. If you do not have medical coverage a Patient Services Representative can help you determine your eligibility for the Discount Fee Program. The Discount Fee Program is available based on income and family size. All charges for services provided are discounted based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Additional eligibility assistance for Medicaid, Medicare, and the Healthcare Marketplace is provided by the Community Services staff.

Our Services

We provide a full array of primary and preventive services for children adults, including family medicine, pediatrics, dental, behavioral health, podiatry, women’s health and community services.

What if I can’t afford my prescriptions?

MEDNET© Prescription Assistance Program
Created in 2000, the MEDNET© program is a community-based initiative to increase access to prescription drug services for uninsured and medically needy residents with chronic health conditions. MEDNET© utilizes clinic-based support staff at Premier Community HealthCare to assess patient medication needs; identify compassionate use programs offered by pharmaceutical manufacturers; complete and submit program applications; and receive requested medications for program clients. Suncoast Health Council, Inc. utilizes proprietary MEDNET© software to coordinate program services and quantify the annual retail value of medications received. A nominal application fee ($11) applies and prescriptions are provided at no charge to eligible patients. Be sure to inquire with the medical staff during your visit to enable a MEDNET© representative to meet with you.

What if I need to see a specialist?

If you need to see a specialist, we will work with you to arrange a visit. A Referral Specialist is housed at each Family Health Center site. You would be responsible for payment for those services and you will need to make arrangements directly with the specialist. If you have insurance, Medicaid, or Medicare, these programs would normally pay for such services. If you have no coverage for medical care, we would work with you toward obtaining coverage.

Are interpreter services available?

Yes. Premier Community HealthCare has free translation services available. Ask a Patient Services Representative to access this free service.

The Affordable Care Act/Affordable Health Insurance

When does open enrollment begin for Healthcare Marketplace?

Open enrollment is from November 1st – December 15th. However, you can apply for Medicaid/CHIP year-round. Learn about the law, how to get coverage, and how it has helped people across the country – visit www.healthcare.gov.

What is Share of Cost?

Your ”Share of Cost” is the amount of medical bills that you must have before Medicaid can pay any of your other incurred medical bills for you. Your share of cost works like a deductible on a health insurance policy. You must incur medical expenses equal to the amount of your share of cost each month before you can become eligible for Medicaid for the rest of the month.

I have Medicaid Share of Cost. Does that count as having health insurance?

No. Share of Cost does not include the 10 Essential Health Benefits, therefore, it is not a Qualified Health Plan (QHP).

What date should I complete my recertification application?

On or before the 15th of the month that your certification period ends.

What is the Medically Needy Program?

The Medically Needy Program can help pay for Medicaid covered services. Individuals enrolled in the Medically Needy Program have income or assets that exceed the limits for regular Medicaid. A certain amount of medical bills must be incurred each month before Medicaid is approved.

If I am eligible for the Medically Needy Program, will I receive a Medicaid Card?

No. You will not receive a Medicaid card.

I don’t qualify for Medicaid and I cannot afford insurance through the Healthcare Marketplace. How can I access healthcare services?

As a community health center, Premier Community HealthCare is designed to serve all – regardless of financial constraints. If you do not have medical coverage a Patient Services Representative can help you determine your eligibility for the Discount Fee Program. The Discount Fee Program is available based on income and family size. All charges for services provided are discounted based on the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Additional eligibility assistance for Medicaid, Medicare and the Healthcare Marketplace is provided by the Community Services staff. Contact an Outreach & Enrollment Specialist by calling 352-518-2000 ext 5015, ext 5016, ext 9228, or emailing pchgsupport@hnetwork.org.