In its third year of operations, Advocates for Community Health (ACH) reaffirmed its role as a decisive force shaping federal policy on behalf of community health centers (CHCs). With a committed leadership team and active membership, ACH made significant strides in securing sustained funding, expanding long‑term legislative solutions, and positioning health centers as essential drivers of health care access nationwide.
Policy Milestones & Advocacy Wins
- CHC Invest campaign mobilized over 500 organizations to urge Congress to boost CHC funding, generating substantial media coverage and traction on Capitol Hill.
- ACH championed the Health Center Community Transformation Hub Act (HR 1072) to fund CHC‑led efforts addressing social determinants of health.
- In response to threats against the 340B Drug Pricing Program, ACH proposed the 340C legislative solution, backed by stakeholder support and endorsements from more than 100 organizations
Member Engagement & Convenings
- ACH’s 2nd Annual Member Meeting convened nearly 30 of the nation’s largest FQHCs, featuring expert panels and visits from federal health officials—including Senate HELP Chair Bernie Sanders and HRSA representatives.
- Peer learning initiatives were launched, including Value‑Based Care and Health Center Operations collaboratives, tailored for CHC leadership and supported by UnitedHealthcare partnerships
Innovation & Growth
- A pivotal three‑year partnership with UnitedHealthcare Community & State was announced, featuring the Community Health Entrepreneur Challenge, awarding $500,000 grants to five ACH members advancing tech‑driven community health initiatives.
- ACH also partnered with Health Choice Network to amplify policy, advocacy and technological support for underserved health centers nationwide
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Legislative Leadership
- ACH’s policy influence extended into key legislation:
- Workforce initiatives embedded in the Bipartisan Primary Care and Health Workforce Act passed from HELP Committee.
- New legislation like the Emergency Preparedness for Underserved Populations Act, co‑sponsored with Rep. Nanette Barragán.
- ACH played a central role in integrating community health center perspectives into CMS’s value‑based care models, including the “Making Care Primary” initiative.