MHHC Advocates for Community Health on Capitol Hill

Washington, D.C. – Morris Heights Health Center (MHHC) proudly joined the Community Health Care Association of New York State (CHCANYS) and fellow New York community health centers on February 6, 2025, for Congressional Lobby Day, advocating for increased federal support to strengthen and sustain community health centers (CHCs) nationwide.

Community health centers are the backbone of primary care for underserved communities, providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to millions of New Yorkers. As nonprofit, community-run clinics, CHCs offer comprehensive services, including primary and preventive care, behavioral health, dental care, substance use treatment, and social support programs—ensuring access to care for all, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. CHCs currently serve 2.4 million patients across New York, the majority of whom are extremely low-income, with 71% living at or below the federal poverty line. Additionally, CHCs are a critical resource for Medicaid beneficiaries, serving 1 in 5 statewide, with 62% of patients covered by Medicaid and 12% uninsured.

During Congressional Lobby Day, MHHC met with key congressional representatives from districts where its community health centers and school-based health centers operate. These meetings focused on key legislative priorities, including:

• Securing Sustainable Funding: Advocating for an increase in federal CHC funding to $5.8 billion per year for the next three years to sustain and expand essential services.
• Addressing Workforce Shortages: Highlighting the urgent need to invest in CHC workforce development to meet growing demand and rising operational costs.
• Expanding Telehealth Access: Urging lawmakers to support telehealth flexibility and reimbursement parity in Medicare to ensure continued access to virtual care.
• Preserving Medicaid Coverage: Advocating for policies that protect Medicaid funding, which currently supports care for 60% of CHC patients.
• Protecting the 340B Drug Pricing Program: Defending this critical program that enables CHCs to purchase outpatient medications at significantly reduced costs, allowing them to pass savings on to patients and reinvest in expanded healthcare services.

“Community health centers are the foundation of equitable healthcare, providing essential services to millions of individuals and families who would otherwise face barriers to care,” said Mari G. Millet, President & CEO of MHHC. “We are committed to ensuring policymakers understand the importance of sustained investment in CHCs, so we can continue to serve our communities effectively.”

MHHC remains steadfast in its mission to advocate for policies that strengthen community health and ensure equitable access to care for all. By partnering with CHCANYS and fellow community health centers, MHHC continues to champion the needs of New York’s most vulnerable populations, reinforcing the critical role CHCs play in the nation’s healthcare system.

About MHHC

Morris Heights Health Center (MHHC) is a leading Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) dedicated to providing comprehensive, high-quality healthcare services to underserved communities across New York. With a strong commitment to health equity, MHHC delivers patient-centered care through its network of community health centers and school-based health centers, ensuring access to essential health services for individuals and families, regardless of their ability to pay.