HHS to Grant $727M to Community Health Centers

The Department of Health and Human Services says it will issue $727 million to 143 community health centers across the country for construction, expansion, and renovation projects through funds available from the Affordable Care Act.

Community health centers serve nearly 19 million patients, about 40% of whom have no health insurance. The health centers deliver preventive and primary care services at more than 7,900 service delivery sites around the country to patients regardless of their ability to pay. Charges for services are set according to income. 

"There is no question that the economic downturn has made it harder for some Americans to get healthcare and important preventive services. Community Health Centers provide quality healthcare services to Americans across the country but are a life line for those who have lost coverage or are between jobs," HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius says.

"The newly constructed or expanded community health centers will provide care to an additional 745,000 patients and much needed employment opportunities in both rural and urban underserved communities," she said.

The Capital Development program grants, administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration, builds on the more than $2 billion investment in community health centers in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.

"Many of these community health centers need more modern space to meet the increasing patient demand for services," says HRSA Administrator Mary K. Wakefield, RN. "These funds will help community health centers build new facilities and modernize their current sites in their continuing effort to provide the best care possible to more and more people in need."

Over the next five years, the Affordable Care Act will provide $11 billion for the operation, expansion and construction of community health centers across the country to serve nearly double the number of patients receiving care, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay.

A state by state list of Recovery Act investments in community health centers is available here.