Virginia Health Care Foundation

What is a Community Health Center?

A community health center is a non-profit, community organization that provides primary care (not emergency or hospital) care for those living in areas of the state with a shortage of medical care.  Because they receive some federal funding, community health centers have paid medical and support staff and are open regular business hours (unlike free or charitable clinics).

How Can a Community Health Center Help?

All community health centers (CHCs) provide health care, prescription medications and wellness outreach.  All CHCs also provide immunizations, screenings and preventive care, x-ray and lab services, case management and physician care.

More than 40 Virginia CHC sites also offer dental services and many provide behavioral health services, OB/GYN or have an on-site pharmacy.

How do I know if I am eligible to receive care at a CHC?

Anyone is eligible to seek care at a CHC.  CHCs do not accept or deny patients based on ability to pay, insurance status, age, sex, religion or race.  Depending how busy the CHC is, you may have to wait, or be on a wait-list, before you are able to get care.

Is there a CHC near me?

Go to this website to find the CHC closest to you.  The map shows each community health center. Click on the dot for the facility’s contact information. Below the map is a place where you can search for a CHC near you.

When are CHCs open?

Community health centers are generally open during regular business hours.  Some may have a have longer hours some nights or weekends.  Visit www.vacommunityhealth.org, the Virginia Community Healthcare Association’s website, to find the hours of operation for the CHC nearest you.

How much does care cost at a CHC?

It depends. CHCs accept many types of health insurance, including Medicaid, FAMIS and Medicare. If you don’t have health insurance, the CHC uses what is called a “sliding fee scale”, based on your income and family size, to determine how much you must pay for services.

How can I learn more?

Contact the CHC in your area.  You can find it on the Virginia Community Healthcare Association’s website.

Last Updated on October 16, 2024