We Care Manatee

We Care Manatee helps uninsured Manatee County residents get connected with medical care, specialty referrals, breast health services, pharmacy assistance, and transportation for approved healthcare appointments.

The Bradenton nonprofit serves low-income, uninsured adults who live in Manatee County and need help accessing care they could not otherwise afford. Instead of operating like a primary care clinic, We Care Manatee works through referrals, local medical partners, volunteer physicians, and community programs to help patients move from “I need care” to “I know where to go next.”

Medical Help for Uninsured Manatee County Residents

We Care Manatee connects eligible patients with free medical care and healthcare resources through a network of volunteer providers and local partners. Services may include specialty care referrals, breast health screenings and diagnostic testing, prescription assistance, transportation to approved medical appointments, help with eligibility applications, and access to medical equipment when available.

Patients generally qualify based on residency, insurance status, age, income, and the type of care needed. We Care Manatee’s specialty care services are available to uninsured Manatee County residents ages 18 and older with income at or below 300% of the federal poverty level.

Specialty Care Referrals

When a patient’s primary care doctor needs help managing a medical issue, that doctor can send a referral to We Care Manatee. If a volunteer specialist is available and the patient qualifies, We Care Manatee helps coordinate the next step. The patient sees the specialist in that provider’s office, and notes from the visit are sent back to the primary care provider for ongoing care.

This program is designed for patients who already have a primary care provider or clinic. If someone does not have a doctor, We Care Manatee encourages them to call the office for help connecting with a local clinic.

Breast Health Services

We Care Manatee’s Breast Health Program helps eligible Manatee County residents access screening mammograms and diagnostic breast care services. Covered services may include annual mammograms, whole-breast ultrasounds, biopsies, and MRIs through local breast care partners.

For routine mammograms, patients need a referral from a physician. If a patient has a breast concern or does not have a primary care provider, We Care Manatee may be able to connect them with a community partner to establish care.

Pharmacy Assistance and Medical Transportation

If a current We Care Manatee patient sees a We Care specialist and receives a prescription from that provider, the organization may be able to help cover the medication through one of its Walmart partner pharmacies. Limits apply.

We Care Manatee can also arrange transportation for approved medical needs, including eligibility appointments, doctor visits, medical appointments, and prescription pickup.

How to Get Started

Most patients start with a referral from the doctor or clinic where they receive medical care. Referrals should be faxed to We Care Manatee and include a referral form, medical records related to the care needed, and a signed physician’s order.

Patients may be asked to provide photo identification, proof of age, proof of Manatee County residency, and income verification.