Recognizing National Health Center Week

Floor Speech

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Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize National Health Center Week and celebrate the vital role Community Health Centers play in improving the health and well-being of millions of Americans. This week, we honor the dedicated health professionals, staff, and leaders who make these centers a trusted source of care for communities across the United States.

For nearly 60 years, Community Health Centers have been a cornerstone of our Nation's health care system, delivering high-quality, comprehensive care to 52 million patients across more than 17,000 communities. These centers are a critical part of New York's primary care safety net, serving more than 2.5 million patients across 900 sites. Nearly 60 percent of New York's Community Health Center patients are enrolled in Medicaid, the Children's Health Insurance Program, or are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.

These centers, which include our Capital Region's own Whitney Young Health Center and Hometown Health Centers, deliver integrated, whole- person care to patients and families who need it most. This includes primary and preventive care, behavioral health services, substance use disorder treatment, dental care, vision care, and other essential services. With more than $9.2 million in federal investments, these sites serve more than 36,983 patients, providing life-saving care that builds healthier communities throughout the Capital Region. I have been proud to help deliver federal support for these Community Health Centers, including funding to create a new dental clinic at Hometown Health Centers and establish a community-based dental residency program at Whitney Young Health Center. These investments ensure more Capital Region residents can access the care they need close to home.

As we recognize the vital role of Whitney Young Health Center and Hometown Health Centers, we celebrate their longstanding commitment to deliver equitable, accessible care to patients in our region and beyond.

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