Frequently Asked Questions

What is a FQHC?
Lifecare is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), which is a reimbursement designation from the Bureau of Primary Health Care and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. As an FQHC, we provide comprehensive primary health care services to those who need it the most.
Who can be a patient at Lifecare?
Anyone. We provide affordable, accessible and comprehensive health care services to residents of Canton, Massillon and surrounding Stark County Ohio communities. We are open to persons of all ages regardless of ability to pay and health insurance status. New patients are always welcome.
What if I don’t have health insurance?
We accept Medicaid, Medicare and most private insurance plans. Reduced rates are available for qualifying uninsured patients based on household size and income. We have Certified Application Counselors available to assist you with completing eligibility applications for Medicaid and for Health Insurance Marketplace plans.
Do you offer a sliding fee scale?
We call it a reduced rate for qualifying patients.
Are you on the SARTA bus line?
Yes. All of our centers are conveniently located near public transportation provided by the Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA).
Do you provide language translators?
Yes, we offer language translation and sign language assistance.
Do you give flu shots?
Yes. For adults, we have the Flu Vaccine. For children, we have “vaccines for children—VCF” for Medicaid or uninsured patients. Vaccines for children up to 18 years old include the flu, meningitis and HIB vaccines.
Do you provide work physicals?
Yes. Our work physicals for current patients include a basic exam which determines if you are healthy enough to work. We check your heart and record vital signs. We do not provide extensive work physicals that provide information such as how much you can lift or how long you can stand.
Do you provide sports physicals?
Yes. We provide sports physicals for our current patients. Call to schedule an appointment.
Do you provide medical services for worker’s comp?
No. The Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation provides online services to medical providers treating injured workers.

For more information, check online at www.bwc.ohio.gov/provider.

What happens when I call for an appointment?
All appointments are scheduled by calling Lifecare at 330-454-2000. If you are sick, same-day appointments are available for our current patients. For new patients, your first appointment will be to register as a patient with Lifecare before making an appointment for services or to see a healthcare provider.
What should I expect at my first appointment?
Your first appointment will be to register as a patient with Lifecare. At your first appointment you will need to complete new patient registration forms and review your information with us. Your first healthcare visit will then be scheduled.
What do I need to bring to my first appointment?
You will need to bring your photo identification, health insurance card and a list of your medications or the prescriptions bottles. It is helpful to complete your new patient registration forms in advance. You can then complete your paperwork at home and speed up the registration process, or you can complete the forms at your first appointment.
Will I see the same doctor every time I visit Lifecare?
We will make every effort to schedule your appointment with the same doctor. Because of work schedules and the type of service you need, we may not be able to schedule you to see the same doctor every time.
What do I need to bring to every appointment?
For each appointment, you will need to bring your photo identification, health insurance card and a list of your medications or the prescriptions bottles.
What if I can’t make it to my appointment?
If you are unable to keep your appointment, you must call us at 330-454-2000 and cancel at least 24 hours in advance so we can give your appointment time to another patient.
When will I need to pay for my care?
Co-pays are due at the time of service unless other payment arrangements have been made in advance with our billing department at 234-521-7212. For your convenience, Lifecare accepts payment with a credit card, debit card, cash or personal check.
Did you have a name change?
Yes. In 2014, the Richard D. Watkins Canton Community Clinic name was changed to Lifecare Family Health & Dental Center.