National Health center week – Rooted in communities
Join us in celebrating National Health Center Week. This week we raise awareness about the mission and accomplishments of America’s health centers, who serve 28 million patients. This number continues to grow as the demand grows for affordable primary care.
Acknowledging the hard work that health centers put into finding innovative solutions for various health care issues and those who go above conventional medicine practices is important at this time. Each day during this week has been given a focus topic by the National Association of Community Health Centers
Sunday, 8/4: Social Determinants Day
By using what we know about social determinants and how they affect health risks and outcomes, we are not just improving individual and population health but also advancing health equity.
Monday, 8/5: Healthcare for the Homeless Day
The HCH program (Health Care for the Homeless) provides funding that focuses on expanding care that meets the needs of the vulnerable. Homelessness coincides with high rates of chronic and acute disease, behavioral health conditions, and other problems that make them vulnerable to poor health, disability, and early death. HCH provides high-quality care to meet the needs of these people.
Tuesday, 8/6: Agricultural Worker Health Day
The health center community members have come a long way to develop increased access to care for migrant and seasonal agricultural workers and their families. This is important for these people who may otherwise go without care!
Wednesday, 8/7: Patient Appreciation Day
Without patients, health centers would not have consumers! 51% of people on the health center board must be consumers who live within the community and are served by the health center. These people represent others who are also served by the health center and are comprised of all different races, ethnicities , and genders to reach all demographics. On this day, we celebrate patients and board members.
Thursday, 8/8: Stakeholder Appreciation Day
Celebrate National Health Center Week by engaging legislators and legislative staff. Legislative support is crucial to health centers success.
Friday, 8/9: Health Center Staff Appreciation Day
Staff deserve to be recognized for their dedication and commitment to providing care to patients in need. The incredible care that is brought to their patients is due to the diligent work of health center staff and volunteers.
Saturday, 8/10: Children’s Health Day
The National Health Center Week website states that more than 8 million children in the United States get their primary health care from a community health center. The idea of this day is to get the youngest members of our communities engaged.
Healthcare throughout this country has morphed unbelievably over the years and continues to do so as we move forward. Within the past decade, it has been fundamentally important to recognize National Health Center Week to put significant spotlight on the oft overlooked aspect of healthcare that contributes heavily to population health. It is important to let the professionals involved during these focused days understand they are appreciated and express gratitude for their hard work. Without these folks healthcare wouldn’t be where it is today.
