What is a community
health center?
Community health centers (CHCs) are the largest primary care system in the United States, providing care to over 30 million Americans annually. Through an integrated care model, patients receive access to comprehensive and coordinated medical, dental, behavioral health, and pharmacy services. Community health centers serve all - from infants to the elderly and regardless of insurance status or income - helping individuals and communities reach their full health potential.
Who do CHCs serve?
1 in 11 people Americans, including nearly 245,000 individuals in Iowa.
90% of health center patients in Iowa have household incomes at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, or approximately $64,000 household income for a family of four.
Health Coverage:
19% of health center patients in Iowa are uninsured and 50% are covered under Medicaid.
Economic Drivers
Powering local economies.
CHCs are consumer-governed small businesses that have a total economic impact of $328 million in Iowa and $85 billion nationally. This impact is felt most strongly in rural and other areas where healthcare access is limited, contributing to improved quality of life.
A strong return on investment.
For every $1 invested solely in federal Health Center Program 330 funding, Iowa’s CHCs generate $4.40 in total economic activity across the state.
Saving taxpayers money.
A University of Chicago study found CHCs save Medicaid $2,371 (or 24%) per person on average in total cost of care each year when compared to other providers. The cost of care at Iowa CHCs is 27% lower than other providers.
