This week we recognize our community health centers in honor of National Community Health Centers Week, August 6th-12th. Community Health Centers (CHCs) dismantle obstacles to healthcare by catering to every patient, regardless of their insurance situation or financial capacity. They furnish care that is culturally and linguistically suitable, and extend enabling services to tackle non-medical necessities.
CHCs represent consumer-oriented and patient-centric institutions that fulfill the role of a comprehensive and economically viable primary healthcare solution for the most marginalized communities. These centers enhance healthcare accessibility and deliver integrated services tailored to the distinct needs of the populations they support.
CHCs are characterized by four essential elements: Situated in areas of pronounced demand, as recognized by federal designation for medically underserved regions or populations; Providing comprehensive arrays of services, aligned with community requirements, encompassing medical, dental, visual, behavioral health, and enabling services; Embracing all individuals without regard for insurance coverage or financial capability, along with provision of sliding fee scale alternatives for individuals with limited income; Empowering patient-majority governing boards, mandating that a minimum of 51% of each health center's governing board comprises individuals who are patients themselves.
Rural Health Association of Tennessee CHCs members include:
Matthew Walker Comprehensive Health Clinic - Serving Davidson, Montgomery, and Rutherford Counties
Mercy Community Health- Serving Marshall and Williamson Counties
Morgan County Medical Center- Serving Morgan County
Ocoee Regional Health- Serving Bledsoe, Bradley, Grundy, Polk, and Rhea Counties
Perry County Medical Center- Serving Hickman and Perry Counties
If you are interesting in finding out more about National Community Health Centers Week, CHCs, events, and toolkits, find more information here.
Find your local CHC here.
Find out more about Tennessee CHCs here.