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Healing the gap: An innovative approach to affordable primary care

Healing the gap: An innovative approach to affordable primary care

(Vamos Health)


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Estimated read time: 5-6 minutes

Every day, countless people across the United States get sick or injured and have nowhere affordable to turn for care. With health insurance costs continuing to rise, many families are forced to make difficult choices between paying medical bills and covering everyday expenses.

For many Utah residents, especially freelancers, immigrants, small business owners, newly uninsured, and young adults aging off of their parent's insurance, finding affordable health care without insurance can feel impossible. Many Hispanic Americans and immigrants face additional barriers to care. Language, cost and lack of insurance often mean people go without treatment until an emergency is their only option.

According to a recent Pew Research Center study, Hispanic adults are less likely than other Americans to have seen a medical provider in the past year.

They are also more likely to lack health insurance, with 19% of Hispanic Americans under age 65 uninsured as of 2021.

The study highlights how language and cultural factors can block access. Forty-four percent of Hispanic adults say language or cultural differences are a major reason why health outcomes are worse in their communities. More than half point to jobs with higher health risks or a lack of access to quality care locally.

Recognizing this gap, Vamos Health launched in 2024 with a simple mission: to make primary care accessible, affordable and bilingual for all Utahns. Through a membership-based model, the clinic offers high-quality care without the high costs.

All Vamos Health medical staff are bilingual in English and Spanish, ensuring patients can explain concerns and understand instructions. That linguistic bridge matters to many community members. The Pew study found that among Hispanic immigrants, 58% prefer a Spanish-speaking medical provider.

And it is already making a difference.

Healing the gap: An innovative approach to affordable primary care
Photo: Vamos Health

An affordable solution to healthcare

Vamos Health is a private, bilingual clinic that simplifies access to care through three flexible options: low-cost membership, cash pay or medical insurance, although insurance is not required. The clinics currently serve patients in Ogden and West Valley City, with a new location opening in Provo in January.

The model appeals to a wide range of patients, including those who are uninsured, underinsured or fully insured but seeking a more personal experience. Freelancers, small business owners and immigrants who often face barriers in the traditional system are finding affordable and consistent care at Vamos Health.

Community outreach and free screenings

Beyond clinic walls, Vamos Health is active at local festivals and community events, meeting people where they are. The clinics also host free health screenings for blood pressure, heart rate and glucose with no appointment needed. Screenings are available every Tuesday from 1 to 6 p.m. at the West Valley office and daily during open hours at the Ogden clinic.

These efforts help detect health issues early, build trust and connect people to care who might otherwise wait until a crisis.

In a community where many delay or avoid care due to cost or communication barriers, Vamos Health offers a dependable and inclusive alternative. By lowering financial and language barriers, the clinic helps people receive preventive and ongoing care rather than waiting until conditions become serious.

When urgent needs arise, Vamos Health is also there to provide care for unexpected moments. The clinic treats:

Cuts and stitches

  • Strep, COVID-19 and flu testing and treatment.
  • Sprains, migraines and allergic reactions.
  • Pink eye, earaches and skin rashes.
  • Asthma and respiratory issues.
  • Work injuries, splinters and more.

Reviews that speak for themselves

Patients often describe Vamos Health as kind, welcoming and affordable.

One woman said, "We loved the kindness of Vamos Health. Our family is very grateful for the attention, patience and good treatment toward us. Good staff and good service. We definitely recommend it."

Another wrote, "Such a beautiful doctor's office. Everyone is so nice and welcoming. The office is clean and there are even snacks. If you are looking for a new family doctor who speaks Spanish or English, this is the place."

Healing the gap: An innovative approach to affordable primary care
Photo: Vamos Health

A clinic for everyone

While Vamos Health was founded to bridge the gap between the health care system and Utah's hispanic communities, its doors are open to all. Whether you are a freelancer, small business owner or recently uninsured, the clinic offers a caring, affordable alternative to traditional healthcare.

If you or someone you know is looking for reliable access to primary and urgent care, Vamos Health is accepting new patients and members. Visit their Ogden or West Valley offices to learn more, or go to www.vamoshealth.com to explore membership options. You can also call or text 385-402-7500 to schedule a tour or make an appointment.

For Utah's growing economy and diverse communities, Vamos Health is redefining what it means to belong in healthcare.

One of the Vamos Health providers Preston Beatty
One of the Vamos Health providers Preston Beatty (Photo: Nicole Bright)


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