MHHC Advocates for Community Health Center Funding and Medicaid Reform in Albany

Albany, NY –MHHC proudly joined the Community Health Care Association of New York State (CHCANYS) and fellow community health centers (CHCs) at the New York State Capitol on March 3, 2025, to advocate for essential healthcare funding and policy reforms in the 2025 New York State budget.

CHCANYS Annual Advocacy Day, held at the Empire State Plaza, featured inspiring remarks from the organization’s leadership, a keynote address by New York State Senator Gustavo Rivera (33rd Senate District), and the presentation of prestigious awards. MHHC staff and patients met with key legislative representatives, including Assemblymember Emérita Torres, Assemblymember Yudelka Tapia, and the office of Senator Jamaal Bailey, to discuss critical 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.
• 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 over 60% of CHC patients.

Effeh Bah, an MHHC staff member and lifelong Bronx resident, reflected on the organization’s impact: “Growing up in Morris Heights, I saw firsthand how many in my community struggled to access quality healthcare. Now, working in MHHC’s finance department, I understand how vital funding is to keep these essential services available. Without adequate support, we risk losing programs that so many rely on. Advocacy Day was more than a visit to Albany—it was a chance to fight for the future of healthcare in neighborhoods like mine. To truly fulfill MHHC’s mission, we must ensure the well-being of those we serve today while strengthening the foundation for future generations.”

As the backbone of primary care for underserved communities, CHCs provide high-quality, affordable healthcare to 2.4 million New Yorkers, with 71% living at or below the federal poverty line and 62% relying on Medicaid. Amid growing financial challenges, MHHC and its partners stressed the urgency of increasing CHC funding, expanding telehealth access, and preserving Medicaid coverage to sustain essential services.

Joseph F., a longtime MHHC patient also underscored the importance of CHCs: “MHHC has been my healthcare home for years. From routine check-ups to life-saving screenings, they’ve been there every step of the way. Without community health centers, thousands would be left without care. That’s why I’m here—to make sure our voices are heard, and our healthcare is protected.”

MHHC remains committed to championing health equity and ensuring access to comprehensive healthcare for all New Yorkers. Through continued advocacy efforts, MHHC will work alongside legislative leaders to secure the necessary resources for CHCs across the state.

"Community health centers are at the forefront of providing equitable and accessible healthcare to underserved populations," said MHHC President & CEO, Mari G. Millet. "Ensuring sustainable funding and policy support is critical to our ability to continue serving the communities that rely on us."

About MHHC:
MHHC is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) dedicated to providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to underserved communities throughout New York City. With a network of health centers and school-based health programs, MHHC offers comprehensive medical, dental, behavioral health, and wellness services to individuals and families, regardless of their ability to pay.

For media inquiries, please contact:

India Dansby
Idansby@mhhc.org | 929-512-3900