5 Reasons to Visit a Federally Qualified Health Center

1. 5 Reasons to Visit a Federally Qualified Health Center Finding a home for your healthcare needs can be challenging. By visiting a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), you can benefit from greater access to quality care without financial or geographical barriers. As such, here are five reasons why visiting a FQHC might be the best healthcare decision for you and your family. Why Visit a Federally Qualified Health Center? Also known as Community Health Centers, you might choose a FQHC as your healthcare home for various reasons. These include: 1. They Provide Multiple Healthcare Services Under One Roof FQHCs provide a range of services to meet the unique needs of each individual under one roof. These centers offer primary care, dental care, preventative health services, and more to meet the community's needs. Likewise, some centers offer an on-site pharmacy, mental health services, and even substance abuse treatment. With everything in one place, you may not need to visit multiple providers to get the care you need. 2. Those of All Insurance Statuses Can Get Care at a FQHC Many people delay seeing a healthcare professional because they have no insurance or worry about high out-of-pocket costs. FQHCs are built to serve individuals without insurance by providing services on a sliding fee scale. This means that the price you pay is based on your income. Likewise, people who are underinsured, on Medicaid, or have private insurance can also seek care at a FQHC. 3. Their Services Are Affordable Financial circumstances can be a barrier for many in receiving critical healthcare. FQHCs reduce or eliminate this barrier by offering services with affordability in mind. What you pay is based on your income due to a sliding fee scale, and your ability to pay will not affect the quality of care you receive. 4. They Provide Culturally Competent Care Many people may avoid seeking medical care due to cultural and language barriers. In communities where a majority of individuals are not fluent in English, Community Health Centers may provide translation services and employ culturally competent

2. staff who understand the cultural differences and needs of the communities they serve. This makes it easier for individuals to receive care in an environment that is culturally sensitive and improves communication between patients and providers. 5. Many Will Coordinate With Other Services Many FQHCs do not stop at just medical care; they can also connect you with other essential services. From referring patients to specialists for unique health needs to providing or connecting them with social services like transportation, they aim to address the needs of the whole person, which often extend beyond medical care. How Are Community Health Centers Set Apart From Other Providers? While many healthcare providers offer quality care, Federally Qualified Health Centers are set apart due to their classification as federally-funded healthcare organizations. They are held to high standards of care, which means they must meet specific criteria regarding quality assurance and other areas. These requirements are implemented to ensure that patients receive high-quality care. Likewise, FQHCs are community-driven, offering services tailored to their populations. They are governed by a board with a patient majority so that the services provided remain in line with the needs of the community. This approach means that FQHCs are uniquely positioned to address their patients' specific concerns and improve the community's health outcomes. Find Affordable Healthcare, Even If You Have No Insurance At the Oklahoma Primary Care Association (OKPCA), we can help you find quality healthcare that fits your needs. Whether you are looking for a nearby FQHC or need help finding affordable health insurance options, our team is here to assist you. We help connect Oklahomans with FQHCs across the state, ensuring everyone has access to the quality care they deserve. Even if you have no insurance, we can guide you through the process of finding a FQHC and explore your coverage options. Please use our map to find a health center near you, or contact our team for assistance.