National Health Center Week (NHCW) is an annual event sponsored by the National Association of Community Health Centers to celebrate and raise awareness of America's 1,400 Community Health Centers. These centers provide quality, comprehensive healthcare services to over 31.5 million patients in 14,000 communities each year.
Theme and Purpose
This year's theme, #NHCW24 Powering Communities through Caring Connections, emphasizes the essential role Community Health Center staff, board members, and supporters play in delivering healthcare. The week is an opportunity to:
- Highlight the commitment and passion of those involved.
- Rally public support for the Community Health Center program.
- Advocate for legislative victories, positive administrative policies, and partnerships that promote a more equitable healthcare system.
Celebrating Community Health
National Health Center Week, held during the first full week of August, aligns with Civic Health Month. This timing allows elected officials, who are typically in recess, to participate in public events and engage with their constituents. These activities are particularly important as Congress prepares to make decisions regarding funding appropriations and other issues impacting Community Health Centers.
Impact and Advocacy
Community Health Centers form the nation's largest network of primary care providers. They significantly reduce healthcare costs, saving the system more than $24 billion annually through decreased emergency, hospital, and specialty care expenses. As not-for-profit organizations, they are dedicated to improving the well-being of their communities.
Get Involved
To learn more and support advocacy efforts for Community Health Centers, visit the following websites:
