State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald issued a statement recognizing National Health Center Week and highlighting the importance of Community Health Centers in New York. According to Dr. McDonald, these centers have their origins in the Civil Rights Movement and were established based on principles of justice and equity.
“National Health Center Week is a time to honor the commitment, compassion and resilience of Community Health Center staff, advocates and supporters who make high-quality, affordable care accessible to communities across New York State.
“Rooted in the Civil Rights Movement, Community Health Centers were founded on principles of justice and equity. Today, more than 70 centers throughout New York deliver care to those who might go without.
“But we are facing deeply uncertain times. Reckless funding cuts now threaten the very foundation of these vital institutions. When a health center is forced to reduce hours, lay off staff or close entirely, it’s not just the facility that’s affected, it’s access to cancer screenings, maternal health care, mental health support, chronic disease management and prevention strategies. These are not just services that are affected, these are people’s lives.
“This National Health Center Week, let us not only celebrate the essential role these centers play in our communities, but also speak out against efforts to dismantle them. Every New Yorker, regardless of race, income or zip code, deserves access to the health services they need to live full and healthy lives.”
There are currently over 70 community health centers operating throughout New York State that provide care for individuals who may otherwise lack access to necessary health services.
