The Community Health Center Program (also called the Federally Qualified Health Center Program or FQHC) is a federally-funded program. But unlike many federal programs, CHCs grow out of the communities they serve and are defined by the needs of these communities. There is no cookie-cutter CHC. All CHCs must meet rigorous governance, quality of care, service, and cost standards and all CHCs must see everyone, regardless of ability to pay. Because of this commitment to see everyone and provide free care as needed, CHCs receive some federal funding and enhanced Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement. Their focus is not only on improving the health of individuals, but improving the health status of the entire community. CHCs are governed by their Boards of Directors, the majority of whom must be patients of the health center.

CHCs must:

• be not-for-profit
• provide comprehensive primary care
• provide preventive dental care
• provide or refer to mental health and substance abuse services
• offer case management services
• offer transportation and interpretive services as necessary
• perform outreach and education
• serve the whole community, seeing patients of all ages and all levels of income.

CHCs are also able to provide access to prescription drugs at reduced rates.