Client Leaders Advocate for Increasing Health Care Access
CFH client leaders joined a panel hosted by the National Association of Community Health Centers to discuss increasing access to health care.
Care For the Homeless (CFH) client leaders joined hundreds of advocates last month for a week of advocacy hosted by the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC). The client leaders met with NYC congressional representatives, expressing support for the expansion of the Community Health Center (CHC) systems of care.
Client Leaders Make Their Priorities Clear
One of the main priorities discussed was the need to strengthen and expand the CHC model of high-quality, comprehensive primary care. Continued and expanded investment would extend care into additional communities. Additionally, it would enhance the services provided at 800 CHC sites in New York State.
Furthermore, as we come out of the pandemic, it’s essential that we fully address the health needs of underserved communities. CHCs are equipped to do that work, but need the resources to meet that need.
The Need for Services
Client leaders also emphasized the vital role telehealth plays in providing primary and behavioral health services; as it gives our clients more options to remain connected to their health care provider. In addition, they placed special emphasis on the need to make public health flexibilities permanent. Thus allowing for audio and video calls. As many unstably housed clients do not have broadband access to conduct video calls.
Our consumers also urged congressional representatives to expand telemedicine capabilities by supporting the CONNECT for Health Act (HR 2903/S 1512) and the Protecting Access to Post COVID-19 Telehealth Act (HR 366). This way, CHCs can continue to deliver comprehensive health care services in virtual settings.
The Effect of Funding
Robust funding for CHCs will help increase the accessibility of patient-centered health care for thousands of vulnerable New Yorkers. We thank our client leaders for sharing their stories with our elected leaders and showing how important health care access is in addressing homelessness.
Let Congress hear from you as they negotiate investments for community health centers and the people they serve.
