Health & Medical Care
← Back to Resource DirectoryAlzheimer’s Association Helpline
The Alzheimer’s Association provides 24/7 support through its national helpline, offering confidential crisis intervention, information on caregiving, and referrals to local resources. They facilitate support groups, educational programs, and clinical trial connections for individuals living with dementia and their families.
Phone: 1-800-272-3900
Website: alz.org
American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society provides support and information for patients, survivors, and caregivers at every stage of a cancer journey. Key services include a 24/7 cancer helpline, guidance on treatment options and side effects, and assistance with practical needs such as free transportation to treatment and lodging for those traveling for care. ACS also offers resources for cancer prevention, screening guidelines, and clinical trial matching.
Phone: 1-800-227-2345
Website: cancer.org
Area Agency on Aging of Broward County
The AAABC serves as the Aging and Disability Resource Center for Broward County. It plans and coordinates a variety of programs for residents aged 60 and older, their families, and caregivers. Services include the Elder Helpline for information and referrals, Medicare counseling (SHINE), health and wellness classes, and support for in-home care to help seniors maintain independence.
Phone: 954-745-9779
Website: adrcbroward.org
Arthritis Foundation
The Arthritis Foundation provides resources to help manage pain and improve quality of life. They offer "Live Yes! Connect Groups" for peer support, educational webinars, and the "Walk With Ease" program. Their toll-free helpline provides personalized information and referrals to local specialists.
Phone: 1-800-283-7800
Website: arthritis.org
CPR, AED & First Aid Training & Certification
Nationally recognized certification courses are available for individuals, healthcare professionals, and workplaces. Training covers adult and pediatric CPR, Automated External Defibrillator (AED) use, and basic first aid for injuries and medical emergencies. Programs typically offer flexible learning options, including fully in-person classes or blended formats that combine online coursework with an in-person skills assessment.
Find American Red Cross Classes
Find American Heart Association Classes
Epilepsy Alliance Florida
Epilepsy Alliance Florida provides specialized case management and support services for individuals living with epilepsy and seizure disorders. Their dedicated program for those experiencing homelessness includes individualized plans of care, assistance in accessing neurological medical services, medication coordination, and social service referrals to help stabilize their health and housing situation.
Broward Office: 954-779-1509
Miami Office: 305-670-4949
Website: epilepsyalliancefl.org
Florida Department of Health
The Florida Department of Health is the state agency responsible for protecting and improving public health across Florida through disease prevention, health education, and medical services. It oversees county health departments and regulates and oversees medical providers, while also providing immunizations, vital records, and STD and HIV testing services. The department responds to public health emergencies and promotes healthy behaviors through community programs, inspections, and statewide health initiatives aimed at reducing health risks.
General Info: 850-245-4444
Broward County: 954-467-4700
Miami-Dade: 305-324-2400
Website: FloridaHealth.gov
Florida Division of Blind Services
The Florida Division of Blind Services (DBS) provides support, training, and resources for individuals who are blind or visually impaired to help them achieve independence, education, and employment. Services include vocational rehabilitation, job training, assistive technology, independent living skills training, and educational support for students. DBS also connects individuals with community resources and long-term support programs to promote self-sufficiency and accessibility.
Broward Office: 954-746-1770
Miami Office: 305-377-5339
Website: dbs.fldoe.org
Florida KidCare
This is the state's health insurance umbrella for children from birth through age 18. It covers those who don't qualify for Medicaid, offering low-cost plans that typically cost families just $15 or $20 a month. A single application covers all services, including doctor visits, dental, and emergency care.
Phone: 1-888-540-5437
Website: floridakidcare.org
Florida Medicaid
Florida Medicaid offers free or low-cost health coverage for eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, the elderly, and people with disabilities. The program covers essential medical services and can assist with private health insurance costs based on income and eligibility.
Phone: 850-300-4323
Apply for Assistance Online
Food Safety & Health Code Violations
This is the official reporting system for health and safety concerns at public food service and lodging facilities. Use these channels to report foodborne illnesses, unsanitary conditions, or pest infestations.
Restaurants, Food Trucks & Hotels: File a Report
Grocery Stores, Bakeries & Convenience Stores: File a Report
Hospitals and nursing homes:
File a Report
Schools, Jails, & Swimming Pools: File a Report
Free & Low-Cost Health Clinic Locator
The National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics (NAFC) provides a comprehensive database to help uninsured and underinsured individuals locate clinics that offer medical, dental, and pharmacy services. These member clinics are community-based non-profits that provide a safety net for those who do not qualify for Medicaid but cannot afford private insurance.
Phone: 703-647-7427
Find a Clinic
Gilda’s Club South Florida
Gilda’s Club provides free social and emotional support for anyone impacted by cancer, including patients, survivors, and families. They offer support groups, wellness workshops, educational lectures, and social activities to ensure no one faces cancer alone.
Phone: 954-763-6776
Website: gildasclubsouthflorida.org
Hospital Billing Support
Hospital visits can cause significant hardship. Check with your local hospital to see what financial assistance programs may exist and/or what financial payment plans can be arranged.
Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company
The Mark Cuban Cost Plus Drug Company is a public-benefit corporation designed to bypass the complex middleman system of the pharmaceutical industry. By working directly with manufacturers and charging a flat, transparent markup, they offer over 2,300 medications at prices that are often lower than typical insurance co-pays.
Website: costplusdrugs.com
Medical Provider or Facility Concerns
If you have concerns about a doctor, nurse, hospital, clinic, or other medical provider, you can report issues such as unsafe care, professional misconduct, billing problems, HIPAA privacy violations, or unlicensed practice. Complaints are reviewed by state and federal agencies to protect patient safety, enforce medical standards, and investigate violations.
Florida Department of Health
Regulates and investigates licensed medical professionals and healthcare providers in Florida, including complaints about misconduct and unsafe practice.
Florida Agency for Health Care Administration
Oversees hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and investigates complaints related to healthcare facility care and safety.
Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation
Handles complaints for massage therapists, cosmetologists, nail salons, barbers, tattoo artists, and various additional professions.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office for Civil Rights
Enforces HIPAA privacy and security rules and investigates complaints involving improper disclosure of medical information, denial of access to records, and healthcare discrimination.
Medicine Assistance Tool
A centralized web-based search engine that helps patients, caregivers, and providers identify and navigate the various financial assistance programs offered by biopharmaceutical manufacturers.
Phone: 571-350-8643
Website: medicineassistancetool.org
Poison Control Hotline
Immediate guidance for accidental poisoning, medication errors, or exposure to toxic substances. For life-threatening emergencies, dial 911 immediately.
Human Poisoning: Call 1-800-222-1222.
ASPCA Animal Poison Control: 1-888-426-4435 (a fee may apply)
SHINE Program - Medicare Counseling
SHINE (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) is a free, volunteer-based program that provides unbiased and confidential health insurance counseling to Medicare beneficiaries and their caregivers. They assist with plan comparisons, navigating the "Medicare maze," and identifying financial assistance programs. Because they are not affiliated with any insurance company, they do not sell or recommend specific products.
Phone: 1-800-963-5337
Website: floridashine.org
The Deaf Hotline
The Deaf Hotline is a confidential, 24 hour crisis support service for Deaf and DeafBlind individuals who are experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, or related abuse. It provides safety planning, emotional support, and connections to local resources such as shelters, legal assistance, and advocacy services. Communication support is available in American Sign Language to ensure accessible and direct crisis help.
Videophone: 1-855-812-1001
Website: thedeafhotline.org