Recognizing the Southern Missouri Community Health Center

Floor Speech

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Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Southern Missouri Community Health Center, of West Plains, Missouri, on celebrating its 20th anniversary of service to the Greater West Plains Community and surrounding areas.

Since receiving its first patient in February 2003, the Southern Missouri Community Health Center has provided access to excellent quality, affordable medical, dental and mental healthcare to all individuals in need in Howell, Oregon and Ripley counties and the surrounding area.

With more than 65 employees, including physicians, nurse practitioners, dentists, dental hygienists, and licensed clinical social workers, SMCHC provides service to approximately 9,000 individuals annually. The Southern Missouri Community Health Center is a critical element of the local healthcare system that improves healthcare outcomes by allowing individuals to overcome barriers to healthcare access, and by acting as a front-line response to unexpected crises, such as natural disasters, and emerging healthcare crises. Governed by a patient majority board, the SMCHC ensures that each of its patients are the top priority.

The impact of the Southern Missouri Community Health Center stretches far beyond healthcare, as the Center makes a long-lasting positive mark on lives of the members of its community.

It is my great pleasure to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Southern Missouri Community Health Center and applaud its hard work and commitment to providing excellent, accessible services to its community.

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