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. Although 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 dependent upon continuous engagement with stakeholders at all levels of policy. National Health Center Week is 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 and/or legislative staff: Invite legislators and their staff to tour your health center and see firsthand the good work you 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 our media templates to submit a letter to the editor or editorial addressing your policymakers, 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 #NHCW24 on social media!
