Health and mental health care in Arkansas
The short answer
In a mental health crisis, call or text 988. Apply for Medicaid or ARKids First at Access.Arkansas.gov. For a doctor on a sliding fee, find a community health center near you.
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Medicaid and ARKids First
Arkansas DHS takes applications for Medicaid and ARKids First, the health coverage for kids, at Access.Arkansas.gov. For questions, contact your county DHS office.
Official pages: humanservices.arkansas.gov/apply-for-services, humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/medical-services/healthcare-programs/arkids/i-need-more-information-on-arkids
Coverage for adults
Adults can also see plans and help paying for them at HealthCare.gov.
Official page: healthcare.gov
A doctor even without insurance
Community health centers see patients with or without insurance and charge based on income. Use the federal finder to see the ones near you.
Official page: findahealthcenter.hrsa.gov
Mental health and crisis help
Call or text 988 any time for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. You can also chat online. For local mental health and substance use care, ask 211.
Official pages: 988lifeline.org, arkansas211.org
More help in Arkansas
Sources last checked October 27, 2026. If something has changed, please tell us so we can fix it.
Nothing here is a promise of a bed, money or a spot in any program. Each place decides who it can serve. You choose what feels right for you.