A facility that provides primary care, dental, mental health, and other health services in underserved areas. CHCs focus on serving all individuals, regardless of their ability to pay, and often tailor their services to meet the specific needs of the community they serve.
A type of CHC that meets specific federal regulations and qualifies for enhanced reimbursement from Medicare and Medicaid. FQHCs play a crucial role in providing comprehensive, high-quality care to medically underserved populations.
The first point of contact for individuals seeking healthcare services, typically provided by physicians, nurse practitioners, or physician assistants. Primary care at CHCs includes preventive care, routine check-ups, diagnosis and treatment of common illnesses, and management of chronic conditions.
Refers to the ease with which individuals can obtain needed healthcare services. CHCs aim to improve access to care by offering services in convenient locations, providing sliding fee scales for low-income patients, and offering transportation assistance if needed.
A payment system used by CHCs to ensure that patients with limited financial resources can afford healthcare services. Fees are based on a patient’s income and family size, with lower-income individuals paying reduced fees or receiving services at no cost.
A geographic area or population group with limited access to primary care services. CHCs often operate in MUAs to address healthcare disparities and improve health outcomes for underserved populations.
Healthcare services that are respectful of and responsive to the cultural and linguistic needs of patients. CHCs strive to provide culturally competent care by employing diverse staff members, offering language interpretation services, and incorporating cultural sensitivity training into their practice.
A model of healthcare delivery that combines medical, behavioral health, and social services to address the comprehensive needs of patients. CHCs often adopt integrated care approaches to improve health outcomes and enhance patient satisfaction.
The use of telecommunications technology to deliver healthcare services remotely. CHCs may offer telehealth services to increase access to care, particularly in rural or remote areas where traditional healthcare services are limited.
A care delivery model that emphasizes coordinated, comprehensive, and patient-centered care. CHCs may adopt the PCMH model to improve care coordination, enhance patient engagement, and achieve better health outcomes for their patients.
Differences in health outcomes or access to healthcare services experienced by certain population groups, often due to social, economic, or environmental factors. CHCs play a vital role in addressing health disparities by providing accessible and culturally competent care to underserved communities.
The ongoing process of assessing and improving the quality of healthcare services provided by CHCs. Quality improvement initiatives may focus on clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction, efficiency of care delivery, and adherence to evidence-based practices.
Involving community members in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of healthcare services. CHCs actively engage with their communities to better understand local health needs, build trust, and develop programs that effectively address community health concerns.
Activities aimed at promoting healthy behaviors and preventing illness or injury. CHCs offer health education programs, screenings, vaccinations, and other preventive services to help individuals maintain good health and reduce their risk of developing chronic conditions.
The principle of ensuring that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to achieve their highest level of health. CHCs work to advance health equity by addressing the social determinants of health, reducing barriers to care, and advocating for policies that promote equal access to healthcare services.