Community health centers (CHCs) are non-profit, community directed providers that serve populations with limited access to health care including: low income populations, the uninsured, people with limited English proficiency, migrant and seasonal farmworkers, individuals and families experiencing homelessness and people living in public housing.
CHCs:
- are located in or serve high need communities
- are governed by a community board composed of a majority (51% or more) of health center patients who represent the populations served
- provide comprehensive primary health care services and supportive services (education, transportation, translation, etc.) that promote access to health care
- provide services to all with fees adjusted on ability to pay
- meet other performance and accountability requirements regarding administrative, clinical and financial operations
Community health centers can provide a range of primary and preventive care services including:
- diagnostic services
- immunizations and vaccinations
- dental services
- mental/behavioral health services
- chronic disease management
- physicals
- vision care
- lab services
- x-ray services
- marriage and family counseling
- prenatal services
- pharmacy services
- eye care services