August 09, 2012

Manchin, Rockefeller Announce Funds for Community Health Centers in Wirt, Pendleton Counties

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators Jay Rockefeller, Chairman of the Finance Subcommittee on Health Care, and Joe Manchin today announced two grants totaling more than $1 million for improving access and care at community health centers in Wirt and Pendleton Counties and helping to support health care jobs.  

“West Virginians deserve quality health care and community health centers are essential resources for so many people who would otherwise have trouble accessing or paying for care,” said Rockefeller. “Better networks for medical advice and better treatment of medical conditions lead to a healthier state. I want every West Virginian to have peace of mind about their health and the health of their families – this funding is a step in that direction.”

“Helping West Virginians get and stay healthy is one of my top priorities, and strengthening our community health centers is one of the best ways to do that,” Manchin said. “These facilities are important community centers, both for the people who work there and those who receive care there. This grant will not only help support health care jobs, but also make sure that West Virginians will get excellent preventive and primary care to keep them healthy.”

The awards are part of a series of investments in community health centers made possible by the health care reform law. Rockefeller worked to include these investments in the law.

Community health centers work to improve the health in their areas by guaranteeing access to quality primary care services and responding to the specific needs of communities. The funding will also help health centers serve more patients, employ workers, and improve economic growth in struggling communities.

Background:

The Health Resources and Services Administration of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services will administer the following funds to improve access to and care of community health care in West Virginia:

  • $521,250 – Wirt County Health Services Association, Inc. – Elizabeth, WV
  • $487,500 – Pendleton Community Care – Franklin, WV

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