HHS Announces Availability of Health Center New Access Point Grants

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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius announced today the availability of up to $250 million in grants for New Access Points for the delivery of primary health care services for underserved and vulnerable populations under the Health Center Program.  The funds, made available by the Affordable Care Act, will be awarded by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).

 

A new access point is a new full-time service delivery site that provides comprehensive primary and preventive health care services.  New access points improve the health status and decrease health disparities of the medically underserved populations to be served. 

 

“These funds reflect the Administration’s steadfast commitment to improving and expanding access to vital primary health care services,” said Secretary Sebelius. “From our cities to our smallest towns, each health center has an important role to play, ensuring access to services in its community. Together they have a critical impact on the health care status of those most in need across the nation.”

 

“New access points will address the unique and significant barriers that stand in the way of affordable and accessible primary health care services.” said HRSA Administrator Mary Wakefield, Ph.D. R.N. “Competitive applications will demonstrate a high level of need in the community, present a sound proposal to meet this need, and show that the organization is ready to quickly put their proposal to work.”

Organizations eligible to compete include public or nonprofit private entities, including tribal, faith-based and community-based organizations who meet health center funding requirements.  Current HRSA grantees may apply, as well as organizations applying for the first time.

 

For more information about National Community Health Center Week, visit http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2010pres/chc.html, or visit www.grants.gov to find out how to apply.