Thanks to a continuous emphasis on delivering patient-centered care that results in positive outcomes, Community Health Centers have received bipartisan political support for more than 50 years. And, while the Health Center Program originated at the federal level, widespread legislative support for Community Health Centers exists across state and local governments as well. Building a stronger, more sustainable Community Health Center movement is reliant on continuous engagement with stakeholders at all levels of policy. National Health Center Week presents the perfect opportunity to show appreciation for elected officials and their legislative staff.
Tips for recognizing elected officials and legislative staff:
- Recognize your elected officials with an Official Certificate from the Health Center Advocacy Network – Download and customize the Certificate of Recognition template.
- Health Center Tours with Legislators or Legislative staff – Invite legislators and their staff to come for a tour of your health center to see firsthand all the good work you and the health center team are doing to care for the community. During the visit you can present an award to your elected official(s) recognizing their support, or you ask them to present an award to a deserving team member at the health center. Awards and recognition are always a great way to connect with policymakers.
- Submit a Letter to the Editor (LTE) or Opinion Editorial to Your Local Media Outlet – use the NHCW media templates to submit a letter to the editor or opinion editorial addressing your policymakers and/or their staff, expressing appreciation and/or explaining the reason why their continued support is so important for the health center and the patients you serve.
- Member of Congress can’t make it to your events? Ask them to celebrate NHCW on social media!
