In a move designed to improve the provision of health care, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) announced $8.8 million in awards to be given to community health centers across the United States. The goal is to increase patient-centered care and improve the quality of services for more Americans.
The patient-centered medical home (PCMH) delivery model enhances access to care and provides help with planning, management, and comprehensive care. ““This funding will help transform even more health centers to be better coordinate care in a way that benefits the patients who need care the most,” Health Resource and Services Administration acting administrator Jim Macrae said.
The Affordable Care Act’s Community Health Center (CHC) Fund, which was extended in the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act (MACRA) of 2015, allocates the funding for these grants.
According to HHS Secretary Sylvia Burwell, “These awards will help health centers deliver comprehensive care that puts the patient at the center. More families in communities around the nation will have access to medical homes where a range of health care needs, including oral health, primary care and behavioral health services, can be coordinated and met.”
A list of award recipients has been posted. More information about the program’s goals can be found at the HHS website.