Our Commitment to Care

In Mississippi, 6.1% of children — more than 46,000 — are uninsured, leaving many without access to the quality healthcare they so desperately need. 

Unfortunately, this is a rate that continues to rise. According to a 2020 report from the Georgetown University Center for Children and Families, in 2016, the rate of uninsured kids across the state was just 4.8%.

“At Lafayette Pediatric Clinic, we believe that everyone, especially children, should receive medical care — whether they are uninsured or underinsured,” said Dr. Tanya Fitts. “When kids don’t have access to preventative care services, you typically see increased hospitalizations and more emergency room visits.” 

That is why the clinic has taken the steps to become a Health Professional Shortage Area (HPSA) site. This certification from the National Health Services Corps (NHSC) means that Lafayette Pediatric Clinic can now provide services to patients at a sliding scale discount based on the size of their family and their income. 

“We don’t want anyone to be worried about paying the bills when it comes to their child’s health,” said Dr. Fitts. 

This discount applies to all services rendered at Lafayette Pediatric Clinic. To qualify, patients will need to complete an application and bring it, along with some additional documentation, to their appointment. 

As part of its HPSA status, the Lafayette Pediatric Clinic staff will implement and invest in quality improvement projects to further build upon the care and services the team provides to every patient.

“Our first project will center on immunizations,” said Dr. Fitts. “We want to improve immunization rates in the state and launch a project that will help those who are behind on their immunizations catch up.”

If you would like to learn more about the HPSA discount program, please call our clinic or click here.