By Nicole Forgione

Every August, the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) celebrates National Health Center Week (NHCW) to raise awareness of America’s 1,400 Community Health Centers (CHCs).

CHCs provide essential healthcare services in communities that are most in need. They welcome everyone, including families, children, farm workers, and those experiencing homelessness. CHCs serve individuals who are uninsured, have Medicaid, or have private insurance. They offer primary and preventive health care services and are the preferred choice for millions of people. They are also cost-effective. Research shows that investing in health centers helps save nearly $24 billion annually for the healthcare system.

All CHCs are nonprofit organizations, and the 1,400 CHCs across the United States are driven by a mission to improve the health and well-being of their communities. Led by consumers and patients, CHC boards of directors must have more than 51% patient representation. As a result, major decisions for health centers are primarily made by patients, which helps ensure they are accountable to their communities’ specific needs. CHCs are typically located in medically underserved areas with fewer doctors and healthcare professionals, where many residents live in poverty.

“National Health Center Week is an opportunity to highlight the vital role community health centers play in delivering quality medical care to all, regardless of ethnicity, race, income, or health insurance status,” says Dr. LaVonne Ansari, PhD, chief executive officer/executive director, Community Health Center of Buffalo, Inc. “We are committed to serving our community year-round with excellence and compassion.”

The Community Health Center of Buffalo, Inc. (CHCB) is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) with locations in Erie and Niagara Counties, along with a mobile healthcare unit. CHCB serves all patients regardless of their ability to pay, offering discounted fees for those who qualify, and does not deny services based on race, color, sex, national origin, disability, religion, or sexual orientation. CHCB accepts Medicaid, Medicare, Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP), private pay, and the uninsured. This year, CHCs across the country are worried about potential Medicaid cuts. They face increased financial pressure and possible service reductions. Medicaid cuts could reduce reimbursements for services, which might significantly impact their already tight budgets, especially for centers with many Medicaid patients. “Medicaid is a lifeline for families in our community,” added Dr. Ansari. “We remain committed to working with Congress and our healthcare partners to protect Medicaid and ensure continued access to care for those who need it most.”

The Community Health Center of Buffalo, Inc. will observe National Immunization Awareness Month in August to emphasize the importance of vaccines for people of all ages, particularly for children returning to school. To learn more about recommended immunizations, visit www.health.ny.gov/prevention/immunization. To book an appointment at a CHCB location near you, call 716-986-9199. To explore career opportunities, visit www.chcb.net/careers.

Nicole Forgione is Director of Marketing at CHCB.