Join the movement to protect community health centers
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Community health centers like Zufall Health are a vital and valued part of the U.S. health care system, providing high-quality, affordable care to everyone. This model not only helps people stay healthy but also lowers costs to emergency departments, hospitals, and federal programs like Medicaid and Medicare.
Despite their proven impact, community health centers are facing federal funding challenges.
“No one should have to choose between seeing a doctor and paying rent, or between filling a prescription and buying groceries,” says Zufall President and Chief Executive Officer Fran Palm. “Health centers eliminate those tough choices, keeping individuals and families healthier while reducing the financial burden to the health care system. Federal funding for centers like Zufall is an investment that benefits everyone.”
Left: The earliest community health centers were established in 1965 as part of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s Office of Economic Opportunity, the lead federal agency in the War on Poverty. 60 years later, Republicans and Democrats alike recognize and applaud the value of community health centers. Center: Assemblywoman Tennille R. McCoy and Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman with Zufall Health President and CEO Fran Palm; Right: Zufall Health Founder Robert Zufall, MD, Former Rep. Leonard Lance, and Zufall Health Board Chair Bill Shuler.
Accounting for 17 percent of Zufall’s budget, federal funding hasn’t kept pace with inflation or growing patient demand. Worse, it’s often issued through temporary extensions or last-minute renewals, leaving little room for long-term planning.
“This puts immense pressure on health centers,” Palm explains. “Without stable financial resources, we risk being unable to meet service demand or retain skilled staff. Ultimately, this compromises our ability to care for those who need it most.”
The good news is that advocacy works. Past efforts have helped secure funding and stop budget cuts. Palm and other Zufall leaders believe that continued action in 2025 can help bring about the changes needed to secure long-term, stable funding for health centers.
“Lawmakers need to hear directly from people who understand the impact health centers have on individuals and communities,” Palm adds. “It’s quick and easy to become an advocate. Anyone can get involved and help make a difference.”
Take action today! Visit the Health Center Advocacy Network website hcadvocacy.quorum.us and complete the form under “Become an Advocate Today.” By signing up, you’ll receive updates from the National Association of Community Health Centers and tools to contact your local representatives when critical funding legislation is introduced. Together, we can urge Congress to invest in the health of our communities and build a healthier future for all.
Above: Community health center providers like physician Vanessa Samedi, MD, compassionately serve a diverse patient population that includes children, seniors, people experiencing homelessness, residents of public housing, and agricultural workers.