National Health Center Week: The Power of Partnership in Improving Community Health

To expand our reach and impact, partnerships with local governments are essential.

By: Community Health Alliance’s CEO Oscar Delgado, MSW, MUP

As we celebrate National Health Center Week from August 4 -10, it is the perfect time to reflect on the vital role that community health centers play in providing quality healthcare to millions of Americans. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), like Community Health Alliance (CHA) in Washoe County, are at the forefront of delivering accessible and affordable care to underserved populations. However, the challenges we face in addressing health inequities cannot be overcome by health centers alone. It is imperative that cities and local governments partner with FQHCs to build healthier communities.

FQHCs serve as a safety net for millions of Americans who might otherwise lack access to healthcare services. At CHA, we provide essential care to over 30,000 patients annually through our six fixed-service sites and three medical mobile units across Northern Nevada. Our mission is to ensure that everyone has access to the health care they deserve, regardless of their insurance status or ability to pay. To expand our reach and impact, partnerships with local governments are essential.

CHA’s Nell J. Redfield Health Center on Neil Road exemplifies such a partnership. The City of Reno owns the building where the health center is located, while CHA operates the facility, providing primary medical care to over 3,500 patients annually in the area.

Recently, the City of Reno decided to invest $5 million from American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds into expanding CHA’s health center on Neil Road. The City’s investment, matched by CHA’s commitment of $2.1 million, will enable us to increase our capacity, add more medical providers, and introduce critical services like behavioral healthcare, a nutrition program, an on-site pharmacy, and substance use disorder treatment in one of Reno’s most socio-economically challenged neighborhoods. This project is not just the expansion of a facility; it is an investment in Reno’s future. The City of Reno has shown that it is not content with merely paying lip service to improving community health, it is taking concrete action to affect meaningful change.

Similarly, the City of Las Vegas has launched an ambitious and bold plan to add 10 FQHCs in the region over the next several years. These kinds of partnerships exemplify a strategic approach to community health. By working together, we can address the challenges that impact health outcomes, such as economic instability, food insecurity, and mental health issues. Local governments have a unique role to play in this effort, as they possess the resources and influence to drive systemic change.

There are a number of compelling reasons why cities should actively seek partnerships with FQHCs:

1. Shared Resources and Expertise – By partnering with organizations like CHA, cities can leverage the specialized expertise and trust that FQHCs have cultivated over years of service. This collaboration allows for a more efficient allocation of resources and ensures that initiatives are aligned with the actual needs of the community.
2. Improved Health Outcomes – Partnerships can significantly enhance the quality and scope of services available to residents. By integrating services such as primary care, mental healthcare, nutrition assistance, and substance abuse treatment, we can address the root causes of poor health.
3. Economic Benefits – Healthier communities contribute to economic growth. By reducing the burden of chronic diseases and improving access to preventative care, cities can decrease healthcare costs. Investments in community health yield substantial returns for local economies.

At CHA, we are committed to building partnerships that drive positive change in the communities we serve, and we invite local leaders and policymakers to join us in this mission. Together, we can significantly improve health outcomes for those we all serve.