Community health centers have been in service for 50 years in the United States. On The Point, we look at the history of the centers, the populations they serve in our communities, and how the centers are evolving to provide more comprehensive care to patients.
Once referred to as “free clinics” serving poor and uninsured residents, community health centers have evolved, and are leading the way in a new approach to health care called comprehensive care; providing physical, mental, and dental health care under one roof. Government studies have recognized community health centers as models for screening, diagnosing and managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, asthma, depression and cancer. Community health centers remain committed to serving all regardless of ability to pay and still face challenges making sure individuals have access to the health services they need.
Mindy Todd discusses the work and services of the Health Care Centers serving Cape Cod and the Islands with the following guests: Cindy Mitchell, CEO of Island Health on Martha’s Vineyard; Karen Gardner, CEO at the Community Health Center of Cape Cod; Heidi Nelson, CEO of Duffy Health Center; Sally Dean, CEO of Outer Cape Health Services; and Peter McKay, Social Services Manager at Nantucket Cottage Hospital.
