Family Tree Clinic in Minneapolis is a non-profit community health center that has provided sexual and reproductive health care, education, and counseling since 1971. It offers a wide range of services including birth control, STI testing and treatment, gender-affirming care, and abortion care, all on a sliding-fee scale.
Background and Mission
Family Tree Clinic was founded in 1971 by a group of community members who wanted to offer accessible, non-judgmental sexual health services. From its early days, the clinic has emphasized a holistic approach that combines medical care with education and advocacy. Its mission is to provide comprehensive, respectful, and affordable care to all people, regardless of income, insurance status, or identity. The clinic operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit, which allows it to reinvest revenue into patient services and community programs.
Services Offered
The clinic provides a broad spectrum of services, all under one roof. These are the core offerings:
- Birth control: All methods, including pills, patches, rings, IUDs, implants, and emergency contraception.
- STI testing and treatment: Testing for chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, HIV, and other infections, with same-day treatment when possible.
- Gender-affirming care: Hormone therapy, primary care, and referrals for surgery, provided in a supportive and affirming environment.
- Abortion care: Medication and in-clinic abortion procedures, with counseling and follow-up support.
- Primary care: Routine check-ups, cancer screenings, and management of chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes.
- Counseling and education: Individual and group sessions on sexuality, relationships, and reproductive health, plus community workshops.
How It Works: Appointments and Fees
To become a patient, you can call the clinic or use their online patient portal to schedule an appointment. New patients are asked to complete a health history form, and the clinic encourages people to bring any relevant medical records. Family Tree Clinic operates on a sliding-fee scale, meaning the cost of services is based on your income and family size. They accept most insurance plans, including Minnesota Health Care Programs (Medicaid/Medicare), and offer a discount program for uninsured or underinsured patients. You can request a fee estimate before your visit, and the clinic will work with you to make care affordable.
How to Choose a Clinic: What to Look For
When choosing a sexual health clinic, consider factors like the range of services, staff training, and whether you feel comfortable and respected. Family Tree Clinic stands out for its explicit commitment to LGBTQ+ care and its non-profit status, which keeps costs lower. Look for a clinic that offers same-day or walk-in appointments for urgent needs, and check if they provide telehealth options. Also, verify that the clinic is licensed and that its providers are certified. Reading online reviews or asking for recommendations from community organizations can give you insight into patient experiences.
Common Problems and Misconceptions
A common misconception is that Family Tree Clinic only serves young people or only provides abortion care. In reality, it serves people of all ages and offers a full range of primary and preventive care. Another misconception is that sliding-fee care is low-quality; in fact, the clinic is accredited and its providers are licensed. Some patients worry that they will be judged for their sexual history or identity, but the clinic’s culture is explicitly non-judgmental and trauma-informed. If you have a specific concern, you can request a provider who has experience with your needs.
Costs and Insurance
Costs vary based on the service and your income. For example, a routine STI test might cost around $100 without insurance, but with the sliding scale it could be as low as $20. Birth control consultation and prescription are often free with insurance, and the clinic can help you apply for programs that cover costs. For uninsured patients, the clinic offers a discount card and payment plans. It is always best to call ahead for a price estimate, as they can provide a detailed breakdown before you commit.
Safety and Accreditation
Family Tree Clinic is licensed by the Minnesota Department of Health and follows all state and federal regulations for clinical safety. Their providers are certified nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and physicians. The clinic uses evidence-based protocols for procedures like IUD insertion and abortion, and they have emergency protocols in place. They also maintain strict confidentiality, in compliance with HIPAA and Minnesota state law, which is especially important for minors seeking services.
Alternatives in the Twin Cities
If Family Tree Clinic is not the right fit, there are other options in Minneapolis. Planned Parenthood North Central States has multiple locations and offers similar services, often with extended hours. The University of Minnesota’s Boynton Health clinic serves students and the public. For specialized care, the Hennepin Healthcare system provides comprehensive reproductive services. Each of these has its own fee structure and focus, so it is worth comparing. Family Tree Clinic’s unique selling point is its combination of non-profit status, community education, and deep roots in the local LGBTQ+ community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need insurance to go to Family Tree Clinic?
No, you do not need insurance. The clinic offers a sliding-fee scale based on income, and they will not turn you away for inability to pay. They can also help you apply for Minnesota Health Care Programs if you qualify.
Can minors get services without a parent?
In Minnesota, minors can consent to certain services like STI testing and treatment, and pregnancy testing, without parental consent. For other services, like abortion, Minnesota law requires parental notification unless a judicial bypass is obtained. The clinic can explain these laws and help you navigate them.
Does Family Tree Clinic offer abortion services?
Yes, the clinic provides both medication abortion (up to 11 weeks) and in-clinic abortion (up to 14 weeks). They also offer counseling and follow-up care. If you need care beyond these limits, they can refer you to other providers.
How do I get gender-affirming care here?
You can schedule an appointment for gender-affirming care. The clinic uses an informed consent model, meaning you do not need a letter from a therapist to start hormone therapy. They provide education, monitoring, and ongoing support.
What if I can’t afford the sliding-fee amount?
The sliding-fee scale has a minimum, but if you still cannot pay, the clinic offers a hardship waiver. You can discuss your situation with the billing department, and they will work out a payment plan or reduce the fee further.
Are there walk-in hours?
Family Tree Clinic does not have general walk-in hours, but they offer same-day appointments for urgent concerns like STI exposure or emergency contraception. Call in the morning to see if a slot is available.
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