What is a Fresh Start screening clinic?

A Fresh Start screening clinic is an opportunity for children to be evaluated by volunteer medical professionals to determine eligibility for future medical care and surgical services.

Who can attend a Fresh Start screening clinic?

Screening clinics are intended for children who may qualify for Fresh Start services based on medical need and program eligibility guidelines.

Is there a cost to attend a screening clinic?

There is no cost to attend a Fresh Start screening clinic. All evaluations are provided at no charge.

How do I register for a screening clinic?

Families can register for an upcoming screening clinic by following the registration instructions listed on the screening clinic page.

Does attending a screening clinic guarantee surgery?

Attendance at a screening clinic does not guarantee surgery. Each child is evaluated individually, and eligibility is determined based on medical criteria and available resources.

Medical Screening Clinics for Children CA & TX

Fresh Start Surgical Gifts provides free reconstructive surgeries and medical care for babies, children and teens with conditions such as birth defects, scars from accidents or other issues often deemed “cosmetic” by insurance companies. If you’ve faced high copays, been denied by insurance or told a procedure isn’t covered, Fresh Start may be able to help — at no cost to you.

Our screening clinics are an opportunity to meet with Fresh Start’s expert medical team who will evaluate your child’s condition and discuss potential next steps. Walk-ins are welcome, or you can register for a screening clinic below or complete an application in advance here. If you need any assistance, please call patient services at:

English: 760.579.9110
Español: 760.448.2012

However, you don’t need to wait for a screening clinic to reach out! If your child needs help, feel free to contact us anytime to start the process. Fresh Start is here to support you and your family.

TrueCare 3-5pm

2026 Screening Clinic Date TBD

2/6 – San Marcos: 150 Valpreda Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069

9/4 – Oceanside: 2210 Mesa Dr, Ste 300, Oceanside, CA 92054

More Dates TBD

English

Spanish

First Name *

Last Name *

Child's Full Name *

Email

Phone *

Condition related to a birth defect, disease, accident or trauma, or physical abuse: *

Please select a date & location: *

Please select a preferred appointment time: *

Preferred Language: *

EnglishSpanish

Additional Information

Vista Community Clinic 4-6PM

2026 Screening Clinic Date TBD

4/16 – Vale Terrace: 1000 Vale Terrace, Vista, CA 92084

6/11 – Grapevine: 134 Grapevine Rd, Vista, CA 92083

8/6 – Durian Pediatrics: 105 Durian St, Ste A, Vista, CA 92083

10/8 – Fallbrook Pediatrics: 321 E Alvarado St, Fallbrook, CA 92028

English

Spanish

First Name *

Last Name *

Child's Full Name *

Email

Phone *

Condition related to a birth defect, disease, accident or trauma, or physical abuse: *

Please select a date & location: *

Please select a preferred appointment time: *

Preferred Language: *

EnglishSpanish

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What should I do if I am unsure my child may qualify for services?

If you’re unsure whether your child qualifies for services, don’t hesitate to reach out to our patient services team at 760.448.2024 or email Miriam@FreshStart.org. You can also attend one of our screening clinics for more information and to meet with our medical staff to discuss your child’s needs. We’re here to help!

2. What does it cost?

There is no cost for families who qualify.

3. Do I need to wait for a screening clinic to apply?

No, you can begin the application process anytime. However, attending a screening clinic is a great way to meet the medical team and discuss your child’s needs in person.

4. What happens at a screening clinic?

You’ll meet Fresh Start’s medical professionals who will evaluate your child’s condition and determine the next steps. It’s also an opportunity to ask any questions about the program.

5. Where are the surgeries performed?

All surgeries are conducted at Rady Children’s Health in San Diego.

6. Who qualifies for Fresh Start’s services?

Babies, children and teens up to age 18 who meet Fresh Start’s medical and financial criteria are eligible.

7. What if my insurance has denied coverage or the out-of-pocket costs are too high?

Fresh Start often helps families whose insurance has denied coverage or labeled a procedure as “cosmetic.” We also assist families facing high copays or out-of-pocket costs. These services are provided at no cost to you.

8. What if we don’t have legal status documentation?

No problem! Fresh Start does not require legal status documentation so as not to create additional barriers to apply for services. Patients accepted into the program and currently residing in other countries will receive medical visas on behalf of Fresh Start to go through the proper channels when entering the country.

Screening Clinics

TrueCare 3-5pm

First Name *

Last Name *

Child's Full Name *

Email

Phone *

Condition related to a birth defect, disease, accident or trauma, or physical abuse: *

Please select a date & location: *

Please select a preferred appointment time: *

Please select a preferred appointment time: *

Please select a preferred appointment time: *

Please select a preferred appointment time: *

Please select a preferred appointment time: *

Please select a preferred appointment time: *

Preferred Language: *

Additional Information

Vista Community Clinic 4-6PM

First Name *

Last Name *

Child's Full Name *

Email

Phone *

Condition related to a birth defect, disease, accident or trauma, or physical abuse: *

Please select a date & location: *

Please select a preferred appointment time: *

Please select a preferred appointment time: *

Please select a preferred appointment time: *

Please select a preferred appointment time: *

Please select a preferred appointment time: *

Preferred Language: *

Additional Information

University Health 9am-12pm & 1pm-3pm

First Name *

Last Name *

Child's Full Name *

Email

Phone *

Condition related to a birth defect, disease, accident or trauma, or physical abuse: *

Please select a preferred appointment time: *

Preferred Language: *

Additional Information

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)