Mariposa Celebrates National Health Center Week!
Mariposa Community Health Center joined health centers nationwide to celebrate National Health Center Week August 9-15, 2015. National Health Center Week is an opportunity to raise awareness about the mission and accomplishments of America’s health centers, the largest and most successful system of primary healthcare in our nation.
Health centers started 50 years ago as a pilot project during President Lyndon Johnson’s War on Poverty. Today, they have compiled a significant record of success that includes:
- Reducing income and ethnic health disparities nationwide, even in the poorest and most challenged communities
- Reducing infant mortality rates
- Producing $24 billion in annual health system savings
- Reducing unnecessary hospitalizations and unnecessary visits to the ER
- Maintaining high patient satisfaction levels
Mariposa Community Health Center is one of over 1,200 health centers across the country with more than 9,000 locations serving 23 million patients each year. This year, Mariposa celebrates 35 years of providing health care in Santa Cruz County with locations in Nogales, Rio Rico and Patagonia serving over 20,000 individuals. While part of a national system of health care, Mariposa, like all health centers, is community-based; governed locally by a Board of Directors who represent the communities we serve.
Health centers are also increasingly becoming the trusted provider of choice for many families, whether they are insured or not, said Ed Sicurello. “Patients choose health centers because they are convenient, affordable, and offer a range of services from a team of caring professionals. Mariposa offers a full range of primary care services with a focus on preventive care and community-based solutions that enhance both individual care and the health of our communities.”
While the nation’s health care system continues to be at the focus of national debate, Sicurello said, “health centers are one of the bright spots in America’s health care system. We are fortunate to have Mariposa Community Health Center in our communities.”
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