To celebrate National Health Center Week, community health centers from across Los Angeles came together on Tuesday, August 5th, for a roundtable discussion with Assemblymember Jessica Caloza. Hosted by Via Care and guided by Louise McCarthy, MPP, President & CEO of the Community Clinic Association of Los Angeles County (CCALAC), the event was an opportunity for leaders to share ideas, discuss essential health services, and explore how current policies are impacting our communities.
What is National Health Center Week?
National Health Center Week (NHCW) is a nationwide, annual event dedicated to celebrate the vital role community health centers play in providing quality, affordable healthcare to millions of Americans. This week serves as a platform to honor the hard work of community health center workers, the importance of community partnerships, and the ongoing advocacy for our communities.
Together, We’re Stronger
Bringing together leaders from Via Care, Planned Parenthood, AltaMed, and other local community health centers allowed for a powerful exchange of ideas and experiences. This collaboration helps strengthen the network of care across Los Angeles and ensures that patient voices remain at the forefront.
Key Topics Discussed
The roundtable discussion focused on critical issues that are impacting our communities:
- Access to Care: Overcoming barriers such as transportation and insurance gaps that prevent patients from getting the care they need.
- Health for All: Strategies to ensure everyone has the opportunity for good health during difficult times.
- Policy Impact: The importance of sustainable funding and supportive legislation to maintain and expand vital health services.
Assemblymember Caloza shared her commitment to supporting policies that strengthen community clinics and their patients through bills such as:
- AB 265: Nonprofit and Small Business Recovery Fund Act — This bill would create a fund for these types of organizations to access in times of critical distress.
- AB 262: CA Individual Assistance Act — This bill would provide direct cash assistance to individuals and families.
Get Involved & Support Community Health Centers
National Health Center Week is a powerful reminder of the essential work community health centers do to build healthcare systems that serve everyone. There are many ways to support this mission: volunteer your time, share stories to raise awareness, or contribute to organizations like Via Care. Together, we can ensure that everyone in Los Angeles has access to compassionate, comprehensive healthcare.
