On the first day of National Health Center Week, we bring attention to the social and economic factors that impact our health. Health centers work to understand the ways patients live, work, play, and age in order to help them improve their health. In this way, we bring value to patients, communities, and payers.

National Health Center Week is a time to honor and celebrate the work being done at health centers to provide high-quality, comprehensive primary care, behavioral health care, case management, outreach, and other needed services to meet the needs of unhoused people. People who are unhoused have high rates of chronic and acute disease, behavioral health conditions, and other needs that make them particularly vulnerable to poor health, disability, and early death.

North Dakota:

According to a 2020 study, https://bit.ly/2Vh2Mra, North Dakota CHCs had a total annual economic impact on the state of $71,925,938. Having access to health care in North Dakota’s small towns is one of the things that keeps rural communities viable and makes those communities great places to live, especially for those who need ready access to health care services in light of COVID-19. Health centers also contribute to the economic success of our communitues by providing quality jobs for over 340 people.

South Dakota:

According to a 2020 study, https://bit.ly/3y7Xdd5, South Dakota health centers had a total annual economic impact on the state of $112,039,646. Having access to health care in South Dakota’s small towns is one of the things that keeps rural communities viable and makes those communities great places to live, especially for those who need ready access to health care services in light of COVID-19. Health centers also contribute to the economic success of our communitues by providing quality jobs for nearly 640 people.

Today, we celebrate patients and board members who keep health centers accountable and abreast of community needs.

By law, health center boards must include at least 51% of patients who live in the community served by the health center. This patient-driven model works because it ensures that health centers represent the needs and voice of the community. Local community leaders govern health centers, not far-away corporate executives. If you’re looking for a new health care provider, check out our homepage for more information!

Community health centers benefit from support and collaboration with local partners and government officials at the local, state, and national levels. We are proud to have a long tradition of support from both sides of the political aisle. Thanks to our many public and private partners who enable us to serve our patients better and pursue our mission of access to high-quality health care for all Dakotans.

Thank you to Governor Burgum and Governor Noem for proclaiming Aug 8-14 Community Health Center Week in North Dakota and South Dakota.

The incredible value health centers bring to their patients and community is because of the diligent work of our staff and volunteers. These individuals are committed to providing high-quality care to all patients in need, no matter what. The last 18 months have been particularly challenging, and our staff continues to work tirelessly for our patients. Please join us in recognizing our amazing staff for staff appreciation day!

North Dakota:
More than 8,800 children in North Dakota get their primary health care from a community health center. As the youngest members of our communities prepare to return to school, we are scheduling immunizations, sports physicals, well-child exams, and dentist appointments. Call us to make an appointment today!

South Dakota:
Nearly 25,000 children in South Dakota get their primary health care from a health center. As the youngest members of our communities prepare to return to school, we are scheduling immunizations, sports physicals, well-child exams, and dentist appointments. Call us to make an appointment today!