Metro Inclusive Health has been a cornerstone of inclusive healthcare in Tampa Bay for over 30 years. Now the organization is taking a significant step forward in community health support by expanding its innovative “Copay It Forward” pharmacy next to their health center on 2235 Central Ave. 

The Copay It Forward program is a key element of Metro Inclusive Health’s service offerings. Insured patients who use their normal copay to get prescriptions filled at a Metro Inclusive Pharmacy are in turn helping to deliver free services to uninsured patients. In 2022, the program made a remarkable impact, delivering over $645,000 in free healthcare services to patients in need. 

Initiated as part of their pharmacy program in 2018, it ensures that financial constraints do not prevent individuals from accessing necessary care and medications. This initiative underscores Metro Inclusive Health’s dedication to breaking down barriers to care, providing crucial support for housing, food security, medications, and medical, and mental health services.

For those wishing to take part by becoming a patient, Metro Inclusive Health operates nine health centers with more than 100 services ranging from primary care and behavioral health to the most advanced HIV care and prevention services. 

Same-day prescriptions

The organization has been at the forefront of making access to care simplified with same-day appointments and prescriptions for PrEP, nPEP and DoxyPEP.  Located in a stand-alone craftsman house adjacent to the Central Ave. health center, the pharmacy will offer improved convenience for patients, facilitating easier access to medications, and encouraging adherence to treatment plans. Previously home to the LGBTQ Welcome Center, representatives said the organization is laser-focused on the urgent and fast-growing need for access to equitable healthcare services across Tampa Bay. 

Expansion into 9 locations across Tampa Bay

Last year, the organization set out on an ambitious expansion plan to redistribute two large destination facilities among seven new regional health centers for a total of nine across Tampa Bay, from downtown St. Pete to Brandon. The last of the new health centers, located in South St. Pete, recently opened and is now seeing patients. 

Learn more about Metro Inclusive Heath and their Copay it Forward program, online.