HHS Earmarks $335M for Community Health Center Access

The Affordable Care Act provides $11 billion in funding over the next five years for the operation, expansion, and construction of health centers throughout the nation. Of the $11 billion, $9.5 billion will create new health centers in medically underserved areas and expanding preventive and primary healthcare services at existing health centers. An additional $1.5 billion will support major construction and renovation projects at health centers nationwide.

The expansions of sites and services are expected to help community health centers serve nearly double the number of patients they serve now, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay.

Last month HHS announced grants totaling $320 million to fortify the primary care workforce. Of that sum, $167.3 million is for expanding primary care residency programs.

Health centers requesting grants must show how they will be used to expand medical capacity and services to underserved populations. Grant applications are due Jan. 6.