For more than 50 years, the nation's network of 1,00 community health centers, of which we are one since 1989, have served as the health care home for nearly 30 million patients. Health centers break down barriers to care by serving all patients, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay, providing culturally and linguistically approprioate care, and offering enabling services to address non-medical needs.

Community health centers are consumer-driven and patient-centered organizations that serve as a comprehensive and cost effective primary health care option for America's most underserved communities. Health centers increase access to health care and provide integrated services based on the unique needs of the communities they serve.

There are four key components that define health centers and help them reach America's most underserved communities.

1 - Located in Areas of High Need
Designated as medically underserved areas or populations by the federal government.

2 - Comprehensive Set of Services
Based on community needs, health centers offer medical, dental, vision, behavioral health, and enabling services.

3 - Open to Everyone
Regardless of insurance status or ability to pay, and offer sliding fee scale options to low-income patients.

4 - Patient-Majority Governing Boards
At least 51% of every health center's governing board must be made up of patients.