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QUARTERLY BLOG: The Importance of Pediatric Health in Our Community

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Pediatric health, which focuses on the medical care of children, is crucial for the well-being of our community. Healthy children grow up to be healthy adults, making it essential to prioritize their health from a young age. Here are some key reasons why pediatric health is so important for everyone in our community.

 

1. Ensuring Healthy Development

Children go through many changes as they grow, both physically and mentally. Regular check-ups and information regarding vaccinations to help parents make informed decisions about their child’s health ensure that they are developing properly. Pediatricians can catch any health problems early, allowing for timely treatment.

2. Preventing Chronic Diseases

Many health issues, like obesity and diabetes, can start in childhood. Teaching kids about healthy eating and regular exercise can help prevent these problems before they begin. Community programs that promote physical activity and nutrition education are essential for encouraging healthy habits in children. By focusing on prevention, we can reduce the risk of chronic diseases later in life.

3. Supporting Behavioral Health

Behavioral health is just as important as physical health. Many children face stress, anxiety, and other behavioral health challenges. When we prioritize pediatric health, we also focus on mental well-being. Creating safe spaces for children to talk about their feelings and providing access to counseling can help them cope with their emotions. A strong focus on behavioral health can lead to happier, healthier children.

4. Building Strong Families

When children are healthy, families can thrive. Parents can focus on work and other responsibilities without worrying about their children’s health issues. Additionally, healthy children are more likely to succeed in school, which benefits the entire community. By investing in pediatric health, we create stronger families and, in turn, a stronger community.

Pediatric health is vital for the future of our community. By ensuring healthy development, preventing chronic diseases, supporting behavioral health, and creating a supportive environment, we can help children thrive!

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To schedule an appointment today, just dial (814) 455-7222. Our representatives will be happy to assist you. Or click here to send an email to our team.

Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. Community Health Net providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Community Health Net Launches Telemedicine Initiative to Serve Erie’s Homeless Population

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The effort represents a leap forward in caring for our community’s most vulnerable.

Erie, PA – Community Health Net (CHN), the leading Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving the Lake Erie region, is proud to announce the launch of a groundbreaking telemedicine program aimed at providing essential healthcare services to Erie’s homeless population. This initiative marks a significant leap forward in addressing the healthcare needs of the community’s most vulnerable individuals.

With the ongoing prevalence of homelessness and the challenges posed by traditional healthcare delivery methods, CHN has developed the “Taking Healthcare to the Homeless with Telemedicine” initiative. The effort leverages cutting-edge telemedicine technology to ensure that no one is denied access to essential healthcare services due to their living conditions.

“CHN will deploy our mobile healthcare professionals equipped with the latest telemedicine tools,” said Craig Ulmer, CEO of Community Health Net. “These teams will visit strategic locations throughout Erie, including shelters and community centers, to provide on-the-spot medical consultations and treatments.”

The program will offer a wide range of healthcare services, from routine check-ups and screenings to behavioral health support. The goal is to address both immediate health concerns and long-term wellness. By bringing healthcare directly to the homeless population through telemedicine, the organization aims to eliminate the barriers that often prevent homeless individuals from seeking care. The telemedicine approach allows for timely medical attention without the need for transportation or appointment scheduling.

“Homelessness should not be a barrier to receiving quality healthcare,” said Thierno Barry, Board Chairman for Community Health Net. “Our telemedicine program represents a compassionate, dignified, and innovative solution to helping one of our most vulnerable populations. We are excited to see the positive impact it will have on our community.”

Community Health Net is calling on the community to support this life-changing program by participating in Erie Gives Day on August 13th. Donations made on this day will directly fund the telemedicine initiative, including the purchase of equipment, training of healthcare professionals, and operational costs.

 

About Community Health Net

Community Health Net is a Federally Qualified Health Center with seven locations and greater than 35 years of service. CHN is the preeminent, community-focused healthcare network advancing the wellness of the Lake Erie Region.  Its mission is to improve the region’s quality of life by providing professional healthcare services with compassion, respect, and dignity to all.

Chris Cain, CRNP: A Beacon of Compassion and Dedication in Erie’s Healthcare Landscape

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Written by DaWayne Cleckley for Community Health Net

Over the last six years, Chris Cain has distinguished himself through unparalleled empathy and dedication to health service as a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner (CRNP) at Community Health Net (CHN). His entry into healthcare, spurred by early experiences based on patient feedback and the difference he could make in their lives as a nurse’s aide as an 18-year-old, evolved into a genuine mission to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.

Choosing CHN was a deliberate decision for Chris, motivated by a commitment to confront and learn from the multitude of challenges within underserved and underinsured communities. His approach to healthcare transcends the traditional, guided by a philosophy of service over outcomes and the importance of presence and effort over the anticipation of specific results. “You show up. And do the best that you possibly can. What comes of it simply is,” Cain muses, emphasizing a ‘what you put into it, you get out of it’ approach.

This ethos extends beyond professional boundaries, influencing Cain’s personal growth and community involvement, notably his participation in the Master Gardeners program, which addresses food scarcity and promotes sustainable gardening practices that directly affect Erie’s food deserts. His understanding of community health is deeply nuanced, informed by a genuine connection to Erie and encounters with patients, including migrant farmworkers, immigrants, and refugees, which have provided him with a personal understanding of individual challenges faced by the residents and the indispensable value of understanding and compassion in healthcare. His dedication is rooted in a belief in the transformative potential of primary care through methods that tackle social determinants of health and promote a culture of activity and well-being. “Trying to pull people into the primary care model in a way that actually fits into their life…to circumvent barriers,” as Chris put it, is important to him.

One of his most profound realizations during his tenure at CHN is the impact of being present for his patients and showing empathy, a hallmark of culturally competent care. Cain recalls, “Just by listening, patients felt as if I was doing things [for them] at a greater level.” The impact of his style of health care was best expressed by something that touched him and underscored the deep connections and trust he has fostered: the trust placed in him by the community, particularly when family members of patients are recommended to him. “Once I realized the impact of listening to them, focusing on the simple acts [of kindness] meant so much more to me,” he acknowledges, emphasizing the significance of the relationship between healthcare providers and patients.

As he looks forward, Chris Cain envisions an Erie community where comprehensive and empathetic healthcare is accessible to all, regardless of their background or circumstances. As an example, he shares a compelling story of healthcare challenges faced by Erie’s residents, like that of a migrant farm worker from Mexico who hadn’t received treatment until he met Cain, illustrating the complexities of healthcare accessibility and the importance of compassion, respect, and dignity to all.

Chris Cain, CRNP, is a true healthcare hero in Erie. His work and philosophy exemplify the highest ideals of commitment to health service and provider/patient relationships that improve the lives of people and contribute to the health and vitality of the Erie community.

Prioritizing Mental Health and Well-being in the New Year

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As we start the New Year, it’s important to focus on our mental health and well-being. It is a good time to think about how we feel and what makes us happy. Taking care of our mental well-being is just as important as maintaining our physical health. In this blog post, we will learn some ways to take care of our mental health and well-being to help us have a great and successful 2024.

1. Reflect on the Past Year

The New Year is coming, it is a good time to take a moment to look back on the past year. Think about both the good times and the challenges. This reflection will help you set goals for the future and identify areas where you can promote a healthy mindset.

2. Set Realistic Goals

Setting goals that you can achieve is important for your mental health. Break your goals into smaller steps and decide when you want to finish them. This will keep you motivated and prevent you from feeling overwhelmed.

3. Practice Self-Care Regularly

Taking care of yourself is very important for your mental health. You should do things that make you feel calm and happy often. Some examples are reading a book, going for a walk, or simply taking some time to do something you enjoy.

4. Cultivate a Supportive Network

Having a strong support system can greatly improve your mental well-being. Surround yourself with people who are understanding and uplifting. This could be friends, family, or joining support groups where you can connect with like-minded individuals.

5. Focus on Mindfulness and Stress Reduction

Mindfulness means paying attention to what is happening right now. It can help you feel better and less stressed. You can practice mindfulness by doing things like breathing deeply, meditating, or doing something you enjoy. When you are mindful, you can calm your mind and body. This is good for your mental health.

6. Limit Digital Overload

Nowadays, we use a lot of technology and sometimes it can be too much. You should limit how much time you spend on screens and have some time without them.  When you are not using devices, you can focus on what is happening around you and talk to people better.

7. Practice Gratitude

Gratitude is the quality of being thankful or grateful. Being thankful is easy and good for your mind. Every day, think of things that make you happy. Writing them down or telling them to others can help you see the good in life. This can help you feel more hopeful and positive.

8. Seek Professional Help if Needed

When you feel very bad because of your thoughts and feelings, you should talk to someone who knows how to help. They can listen to you and give you advice on how to deal with hard things. Asking for help is not weak, it is brave and good for you.

 

The New Year is a good time to take care of our minds and feelings. We can look back at what we did before, make plans that we can achieve, do things that make us happy, spend time with people who help us, and find ways to calm down when we are worried. Remember, taking care of your mental health is important for a happier and healthier life.

 

To schedule an appointment today, just dial (814) 455-7222. Our representatives will be happy to assist you. Or click here to send an email to our team.

Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. Community Health Net providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

 

Sources

American Psychiatric Association. (n.d.). 8 Steps to Making Your Mental Health A Priority in the New Year. Retrieved from https://www.psychiatry.org

National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Caring for Your Mental Health. Retrieved from https://www.nimh.nih.gov

Ludden, T. (n.d.). What Is Self-Reflection and Why It Matters For Wellness. Psychology Today. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com

 

 

Prioritizing Mental Health: The Key to a Fulfilling Life for Men

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Mental health plays a crucial role in men’s overall well-being, yet it often takes a backseat due to societal expectations and stigmas surrounding masculinity. However, prioritizing mental health is vital to ensure a fulfilling life. By incorporating healthy coping strategies, seeking support, and managing stress, men can enhance their overall well-being. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of addressing men’s mental health and discuss actionable ways to prioritize it.

Understanding the Importance of Mental Health

Mental health is not a sign of weakness but a fundamental aspect of overall health. Society expects men to be strong, resilient, and never show vulnerability, leading many to suppress their emotions and disregard their mental well-being. Unfortunately, neglecting mental health can have severe consequences, including the development of mental health conditions and an increased risk of suicide.

Seeking Support

When faced with emotional challenges, seeking support from loved ones, friends, or mental health professionals is crucial. It’s essential to establish open lines of communication and foster an environment where men can express their feelings without judgment or stigma. By sharing their struggles and concerns, men can receive the support they need and reduce the burden on their mental health. Building a strong support network can provide a safe space for men to share their thoughts, feelings, and experiences while also gaining valuable insights and perspectives.

Managing Stress

Stress has a significant impact on mental health. Men often face immense pressure in various aspects of their lives, such as work, relationships, and societal expectations. Learning healthy stress management techniques can help alleviate these pressures and promote mental well-being. Engaging in physical activity, practicing mindfulness or meditation, and finding hobbies or activities that provide relaxation can be effective stress management strategies.

Practicing Self-Care

Self-care is not self-indulgence; it is vital for maintaining mental health. Men should prioritize taking care of their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This can include activities like getting enough sleep, eating a balanced diet, engaging in activities that bring joy, and setting boundaries to ensure personal time and space. Taking time for oneself allows men to recharge, reduce stress, and prevent burnout.

Adopting Healthy Coping Strategies

Life is full of ups and downs, and having healthy coping strategies is essential to navigate challenges effectively. Men should strive to develop constructive ways of dealing with stress, sadness, or anger. This can involve practicing relaxation techniques, journaling, seeking professional therapy, engaging in creative outlets like art or music, or finding solace in nature. By adopting healthy coping strategies, men can effectively manage their emotions, reduce the risk of developing mental health conditions, and enhance resilience.

Taking Charge of Your Health

Prioritizing mental health requires actively taking charge of one’s well-being. This includes scheduling regular check-ups with healthcare professionals, including mental health screenings. Proactive screening can help identify any potential mental health issues early on and ensure timely intervention.

It’s important to educate oneself about mental health breaking free from societal stereotypes and stigmas. By understanding the signs and symptoms of mental health conditions, men can recognize when they or someone they know may need professional help. Being aware of available resources, such as hotlines, support groups, or therapy services, is also crucial.

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, don’t hesitate to reach out. Schedule an appointment with a mental health professional or contact a helpline in your area.  By seeking support, managing stress, practicing self-care, and adopting healthy coping strategies, men can take charge of their mental health. It’s essential to remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness, and addressing mental health concerns is a brave and empowering decision. Remember, your mental health matters, you have the power to make a difference in your life, and you are not alone on this journey; there is support available.

 

To schedule an appointment today, just dial (814) 455-7222. Our representatives will be happy to assist you. Or, click here to send an email to our team.

Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. Community Health Net providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

Sources

– National Institute of Mental Health. “Men and Mental Health.” Retrieved from: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/men-and-mental-health/index.shtml

– Mental Health America. “Men’s Mental Health.” Retrieved from: Get Information | Mental Health America (mhanational.org)

 

Empowering Communities: The Role of Community Health Centers in American Healthcare

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In the vast landscape of the American healthcare system, Community Health Centers (CHCs) stand as beacons of hope and healing, providing vital primary care services to millions of individuals across the nation. As we celebrate National Health Center Week, it is essential to recognize the significant impact and indispensable role that CHCs play in fostering health equity and addressing the unique healthcare needs of underserved communities. This blog delves into the history, achievements, challenges, and transformative power of Community Health Centers, shedding light on their pivotal role in shaping the future of American healthcare.

The Birth of Community Health Centers
Community Health Centers emerged in the 1960s, during a time of profound societal change and growing awareness of healthcare disparities in America. Responding to a call for action, the federal government established the Health Center Program under the Public Health Service Act in 1965, with the mission to improve access to healthcare for the most vulnerable populations. The first CHC, Columbia Point Health Center in Boston, Massachusetts, paved the way for a national network of community-based clinics committed to delivering comprehensive, high-quality care irrespective of a patient’s ability to pay.

From Humble Beginnings to Nationwide Impact
The growth of Community Health Centers has been nothing short of extraordinary. Starting as a modest experiment, they have evolved into the largest and most successful independent system of primary care providers in the United States. With over 30 million people relying on their services, CHCs have become an integral part of the American healthcare landscape. They serve a diverse patient population, including almost 400,000 veterans, 9 million children, 1.3 million people experiencing homelessness, and 3.3 million elderly patients. In total, more than 1,400 CHCs and Look-alike organizations operate at over 14,000 locations, reaching both urban centers and the farthest corners of rural America.

Champions of Health Equity
At the heart of their mission, Community Health Centers are dedicated to advancing health equity and bridging the gaps in healthcare access and outcomes. One in 11 Americans receives care at a CHC, and within this patient population, the numbers speak volumes about the impact of their services. Twenty percent are uninsured, 59% are publicly insured, and a staggering 90% are considered low-income individuals. Additionally, 65% are members of racial and/or ethnic minority groups, and 42% reside in rural communities where access to care may otherwise be limited or non-existent.

The innovative and patient-centric approach of CHCs goes beyond addressing medical needs. By focusing on the social determinants of health, they seek to prevent illness, promote healthy living, and support patients in overcoming barriers that hinder their overall well-being. This approach ensures that CHCs do not just treat symptoms but work holistically to empower individuals and communities to thrive.

In times of crisis, Community Health Centers have proven their resilience and adaptability. During the COVID-19 pandemic, they swiftly embraced telehealth services, ensuring that patients continued to receive vital care while minimizing potential exposure to the virus. Their ability to pivot and respond to public health emergencies further emphasizes their role as pillars of community resilience and support.

Expanding Access to Care
Health centers play a pivotal role in expanding access to care, especially for those who may otherwise face significant challenges in obtaining medical services. As one in five uninsured Americans, one in three Americans living in poverty, and one in five rural Americans rely on CHCs for healthcare, their services serve as a safety net for those who might otherwise fall through the cracks of the traditional healthcare system.

Beyond primary care, Community Health Centers offer comprehensive services, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and social well-being. Alongside primary medical services, most CHCs provide dental care, mental health care, substance use care, and behavioral health care. This holistic approach ensures that patients receive comprehensive and integrated care under one roof, leading to improved health outcomes and increased patient satisfaction.

Challenges and the Path Forward
While Community Health Centers have undoubtedly achieved remarkable milestones, they also face challenges in fulfilling their mission to provide equitable healthcare for all. Limited resources, workforce shortages, and funding uncertainties often pose obstacles to their operations. Advocacy for ongoing support and increased investment in CHCs remains crucial to ensuring their sustainability and continued ability to serve their communities effectively.

As we celebrate National Health Center Week, let us recognize and appreciate the extraordinary impact of Community Health Centers in empowering communities and fostering health equity. Their unwavering dedication to serving those most in need, coupled with their innovative and compassionate approach to healthcare, paints a promising picture for the future of American healthcare. With collective efforts and ongoing support, Community Health Centers will continue to be the driving force behind transformative and inclusive healthcare practices in the United States. Together, let us stand united in championing their mission and commitment to creating healthier, thriving communities for all.

Call Community Health Net to schedule an appointment with a provider today: (814) 455-7222. Or visit www.communityhealthnet.org for more information.

Our health information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist the public in learning more about their health. Community Health Net providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein.

 

 

Lynn Denning: A Healthcare Hero Passionate about Helping People

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Written by DaWayne Cleckley for Community Health Net

Lynn Denning is the Medical Services Coordinator at Community Health Net, having joined the organization in 2022. She is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the medical offices, along with monitoring the organization’s LPN and medical assistants. Lynn’s passion for helping people is rooted in her family’s history of volunteering in the community.

Lynn Denning, LPN
Lynn Denning, LPN

“I was a preschool teacher; a child counselor at the Safe Net,” Lynn recalled her past experiences. However, it was her grandmother’s illness that made her realize her calling. “I realized at that moment that I could take care of people,” she said. Lynn’s passion for helping people goes back to her childhood when her family frequently volunteered in the community. “During high school, I volunteered at the food bank and helped with hurricane relief efforts down south,” she added.

Lynn began her nursing career in 2008 as an LPN in the acute care department at Abbington Crest Nursing Home. She worked her way up to become an Infection Control and Staff Development Nurse, earning a certification as an Infection Preventionist through the CDC. “We had a lot of staff come and go due to COVID burnout. That meant cooking meals; breakfast, lunch, and dinner for patients,” Lynn said, describing the challenges she faced during the pandemic.

Lynn was diagnosed with two types of cancer, and after a year of treatment and surgery, she was eager to find a job that would allow her to continue helping people. Fortunately, a position became available at Community Health Net, an organization that helps the underserved population in the community. “I looked at the mission and what they did for the community. I saw that they helped the underserved. I saw it as a huge opportunity to serve the community again. It’s a big change from nursing home, but I love it here,” she shared.

In her role at Community Health Net, Lynn mentors the nursing staff, ensuring that they treat everyone with empathy and understanding, making a difference in their lives every day. “I want to make sure our staff treats patients how they would like to be treated. That’s the most important thing we can do,” she said.

Lynn enjoys spending time with her family and friends at her camp in the Alleghany Mountains, where she kayaks and bonds with her loved ones. When asked where she sees the community in 5 years, Lynn expressed her hope to see a healthier community that is full of understanding and empathy for the underserved and those with mental health issues. “I want to see people come together and help each other,” she concluded.

Lynn Denning is a healthcare hero who is dedicated to helping people in need. Her passion for helping others stems from her family’s history of volunteering in the community and her own experiences as a nurse. Her hard work and dedication have made her an essential member of the team at Community Health Net, where she is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Helping Good People Feel Great!

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Be your best self, live healthy and strong, and see clearly what’s ahead while showing your beautiful smile!

At Community Health Net, we love to help good people feel great every day! We provide top-quality medical, dental, vision, pharmacy, behavioral health, and other specialized health services, regardless of your ability to pay, insurance status, or type!

Did You Know?
Community Health Net has happily provided great healthcare to individuals and families in Erie for over 35 years. We are home to about 100 staff and clinicians who love the place we call home. Experience the care of our team at Community Health Net! Make an appointment today!  Call 814-455-7222 or click here to request an appointment online!

Pennsylvania Physician General Visits Erie’s Community Health Centers

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From Left to Right: Craig Ulmer, Chief Executive Officer of Community Health Net, Dr. Denise Johnson, Pennsylvania Physician General, and Patricia J. Stubber, Ph.D., MBA, Chief Executive Officer of Multi-Cultural Health Evaluation Delivery System.

On Friday, April 8th, Pennsylvania Physician General Dr. Denise Johnson visited Community Health Net and Multi-Cultural Health Evaluation Delivery System (MHEDS) to discuss equitable access to healthcare for members of Erie’s diverse underserved, refugee, and immigrant communities. Her trip included a visit to CHN’s vaccine clinic to promote a visit to promote the importance of getting fully vaccinated and boosted against COVID-19.

Community Health Net and MHEDS, Erie’s Community Health Centers, have consistently partnered on a range of health service opportunities to help ensure the health and vitality of the individuals and families in the Lake Erie Region. Community Health Net is the largest Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving the Lake Erie region, addressing the health of the community’s underserved. MHEDS is Erie’s primary FQHC LookAlike, primarily serving the region’s refugee, immigrant, and underserved communities.

Dr. Johnson met with Executives from Erie’s Community Health Centers, key providers within their respective organizations, and Department of Health Coordinators from communities throughout the Western Pennsylvania region. Craig Ulmer, Chief Executive Officer of Community Health Net, and Patricia J. Stubber, Ph.D., MBA, Chief Executive Officer of MHEDS, gave an in-depth presentation highlighting their respective organizations’ stalwart efforts, for-profit and non-profit community partners, and ongoing needs to affect change. A clear narrative developed through the presentation and Dr. Johnson’s follow-up questions: both health centers are undoubtedly engaged, and their work was agreeable with Pennsylvania’s Physician General.

“Community Health Net and MHEDS, Erie’s Community Health Centers, have consistently partnered on a range of health service opportunities to help ensure the health and vitality of the individuals and families in the Lake Erie Region.”

Dr. Johnson listens as Craig Ulmer and Patricia Stubber present a PowerPoint on their organizations’ collective efforts.

Both organizations provided insight into the planning for their long-term collective impact effort: Trauma-Informed Community Development, which they view as the region’s long-term answer to an engaged healthcare effort for Erie’s distressed and socially vulnerable residents. Underpinning the collaboration and other information is the Social Vulnerability Index, designed to help local officials identify communities that may need support and Strategies for Identifying and Engaging At-Risk Groups from the CDC. Factors that inform the endeavor are:

  • Socioeconomic status.
  • Household composition & disability.
  • Minority status & language.
  • Housing & transportation.

Trauma-Informed Community Development is an awareness of the impact that trauma can have in communities relative to healthcare delivery; a method of providing healthcare through a trauma-informed lens consisting of constant attention, caring awareness, and stakeholder engagement to listen to the needs of the individual. During the meeting, Dr. Johnson assisted by identifying resources that could help Erie’s Community Health Centers.

“A clear narrative developed through the presentation and Dr. Johnson’s follow-up questions: both health centers are undoubtedly engaged, and their work was agreeable with Pennsylvania’s Physician General.”

Dr. Johnson listens as Community Health Net and MHEDS providers brief her on the details of their roles in the community healthcare efforts.

Community Health Net reminded the Dr. Johnson of its designation by the Pennsylvania Department of Health as Best in Class Equity Performer for vaccinating on par or in more significant proportions with Erie County’s racial/ethnic minority populations. The conclusion affirmed Community Health Net’s efforts to distribute doses of the COVID-19 vaccine throughout the region equitably.

The Pennsylvania Department of Health invited media to attend the event to highlight the need for people to get vaccinated against COVID-19, especially since area code 16501 is the most socially vulnerable for COVID-19 transmissibility in Pennsylvania.

 

 

About Community Health Net

Community Health Net is the preeminent, community-focused healthcare network that advances the wellness of the region. Our mission is to improve our region’s quality of life by providing professional healthcare services with compassion, respect, and dignity to all. We are a Federally Qualified Health Center with seven locations serving the Lake Erie region for over 35 years.

About Multi-Cultural Health Evaluation Delivery System

Multi-Cultural Health Evaluation Delivery System, Inc. [MHEDS] is the primary community-focused healthcare system promoting the wellness of Erie’s diverse immigrant and underserved communities at its two locations in the City of Erie. MHEDS, a Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alike, is a community-based health care provider that meets the HRSA Health Center Program requirements but does not receive Health Center Program funding. We provide primary care services in underserved areas, provide care on a sliding fee scale based on the ability to pay, and operate under a governing board that includes patients. The defining legislation for Federally Qualified Health Center Look-Alikes is Section 1905(l)(2)(B) of the Social Security Act.

 

 

 

 

Community Health Net Reports Record 2020-2021 Fiscal Year with $4.4m in Net Assets, Grows Cash Reserves by 50 Percent

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The organization continues to show improvement in cash flow and liquidity. 

 

Erie, Pa. – October 26, 2021 – Community Health Net (CHN), the leading Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) serving the Lake Erie region, announced that it ended its fiscal year at its strongest financial position to date, with $4.4m in net assets. Additionally, CHN grew its cash reserves by 50% and implemented telehealth services while experiencing burdens generated by the pandemic.

“The pandemic years of 2020 and 2021 have thus far been very stressful on all of us and especially our community’s and nation’s healthcare system. At CHN, we have faced this challenging event head-on to improve the quality of life for the residents in our region,“ said Craig Ulmer, CEO of Community Health Net.  “We are committed to doing what needs to be done for our community’s health and well-being during these uncertain times. Although this has proven to be a difficult task, we have succeeded.“

Before the pandemic, CHN had significantly changed its culture, streamlined operations, and improved its patient services.  These efforts have resulted in many public successes, including Community Health Net being named “Best-in-Class Equity Performer” by the Pennsylvania Department of Health in 2021.  Additionally, the changes gave the organization the agility to successfully navigate the pandemic, provide quality health services, and remain financially strong.

“As reflected in the key performance indicators, CHN continues to show improvement in cash flow and liquidity. From a trending perspective, and due in part to a number of the [grant] awards, our cash reserves grew by 50%, and our ratio climbed to 4.05,” said Cindy DeDionisio, Chief Financial Officer at Community Health Net. “Even while dealing with the impact of the pandemic, we were able to maintain the days in accounts receivable at 30 days. This is a positive indication of our strengthening cash and is exceedingly better than the typical metric for most health centers. In addition, CHN continues to excel in financial compliance through numerous successful audits and fiscal site visit reviews.”

While the pandemic hindered some growth efforts, Community Health Net moved quickly to serve its community through COVID testing and vaccinations. As a result, the organization added over 1000 new patients, provided nearly 6000 vaccinations (including 1st doses, 2nd doses, and several boosters). In addition, through a diverse menu of healthcare services, including telehealth options, CHN provided more than 36,000 patient visits and nearly 30,000 pharmacy prescriptions.

 

About Community Health Net
Community Health Net is a Federally Qualified Health Center with seven locations and greater than 35 years of service. CHN is the preeminent, community-focused healthcare network advancing the wellness of the Lake Erie Region.  Its mission is to improve the region’s quality of life by providing professional healthcare services with compassion, respect, and dignity to all.

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