National Health Center Week, an annual recognition event to raise awareness of the accomplishments and ongoing missions of our nation’s health centers, takes place this year from August 12 to 18. This year’s theme is Celebrating Health Centers: Home of America’s Health Care Heroes. As the nation’s largest primary care network, health centers serve nearly 27 million patients every year. Throughout National Health Center Week, health centers will be highlighted each day for their advocacy and holistic care including Legislative Appreciation Day, Public Housing Health Centers Day, and Healthcare for the Homeless Day, among others.
The Independence Blue Cross Foundation Proudly Supports Health Centers
Driven by the belief that accessible and affordable healthcare is vital to a healthy and productive life, the Independence Blue Cross Foundation (Foundation) has proudly supported health centers through its Blue Safety Net Program since 2011. The Foundation has awarded more than $18 million in general operating grants to 44 health centers in the Southeastern Pennsylvania region, and Blue Safety Net-supported health centers serve more than 200,000 patients, annually.
This funding ensures that health centers provide access to care in medically underserved communities, improve patient coordination and communication, develop innovative and sustainable approaches, and promote projects to address specific gaps and obstacles in health care.
Blue Safety Net Targeted Funding Projects
As part of a three-year targeted funding initiative, the Foundation awarded nearly $1.5 million in grants to more than 20 Blue Safety Net health centers as they carried out projects to address specific gaps in health care delivery and access to care.
For example, Mazzoni Center, received a targeted grant to expand integration of behavioral health services for the LGBTQ community. Esperanza Health Center was awarded funding for their Enhanced Patient Communication Project to improve the overall patient experience by improving the call center, patient portal, and texting service. At Stephen and Sandra Sheller 11th Street Family Health Services, targeted funding was awarded to developing and implementing a trauma-informed, mind-body approach to care across the lifespan.
America’s Health Care Heroes
During National Health Center Week, we encourage you to learn about and celebrate the missions and achievements of the health centers across the nation. By providing affordable and accessible health care to underserved communities nationwide, these health centers greatly impact the health of all citizens. The Independence Blue Cross Foundation is proud to partner with health centers as they work to improve the health of our region.
