I've had an earache for about a week and think I should probably go to the doctor to get it checked out, but I don't have health insurance at the moment. I just talked to the Portland Clinic, thanks to info from cortex, and they charge a $100 deposit to be seen. Does anyone know of other places that I can go to within the next day or two? I'm not looking for free, I just wanted to see what was available. Thanks much.

Shoot. I can't help you with that, even though i also have no health insurance...

Oh how I know about being uninsured and needing medical care...

* Providence Primary Care accepts uninsured patients and allows you to pay cash. I think they'll force you to make an appointment, though. You could also go to Providence Urgent Care out on NE 99th (it's near a MAX stop) and pay more, but be seen quickly. I haven't had terrible experiences with them.

* If you're into naturopathic medicine, I'm pretty sure the Mississippi Health Center will take cash. No clue how good they are.

* If you're "low income" (I'm not sure what, exactly, that means, nor how much they care) and being around homeless kids doesn't bother you Outside-In gives first come/first serve medical treatment to adults on a sliding scale, and they can refer you to doctors that take cash and also work on a sliding scale. Check the calendar for walk-in days, and make sure you get there early; it's one of Portland's few options for poor folk. I've used them for both medical care and STD testing and I had no troubles. Women friends have had terrible experiences with gynological exams though (not that it's germane to your issue). You'll probably get a naturopathic doctor or a western nurse practitioner.

* If you're "low income" and Outside In doesn't work for you, Portland Alternative Health Center isn't just for junkies and the homeless; they do sliding scale medical care, too. I've heard good things from people who have gone there. Note that the website is outdated, I'm pretty sure they're located at 625 SW 12th now.

Hope you feel better soon!

Thanks cmonkey, that's exactly what I needed. I'm guessing all I need are some antibiotics, so it shouldn't be too expensive. And thanks anyway, Specklet. If I don't get the chance to say it later, happy birthday.

Maybe not-so-useful at this late date, but I'll kick in my so-so relevant two cents for the archive. Make sure you get this taken care of right away. My SO had a ruptured ear drum and I understand it was pretty painful.

Just about any urgent care will take you, I'm sure, or at least point you in the right direction.

IIRC, Fanno Creek Clinic has a similar deposit scheme. BUT they have a deal where the uninsured can trade volunteer hours for services, so I'm sure that they'll work with you.

There's a fairly new free clinic for the uninsured in the Multnomah Arts Center in Multnomah Village.