State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald issued a statement recognizing National Health Center Week, highlighting the importance of Community Health Centers in New York State. He emphasized that these centers are rooted in the Civil Rights Movement and were established to promote justice and equity.
According to Dr. McDonald, “National Health Center Week is a time to honor the commitment, compassion and resilience of Community Health Center staff, advocates and supporters who make high-quality, affordable care accessible to communities across New York State.”
He noted that there are more than 70 Community Health Centers throughout New York providing care for people who might otherwise lack access. “Rooted in the Civil Rights Movement, Community Health Centers were founded on principles of justice and equity. Today, more than 70 centers throughout New York deliver care to those who might go without,” he said.
Dr. McDonald also expressed concern about potential funding cuts that could impact these institutions. “But we are facing deeply uncertain times. Reckless funding cuts now threaten the very foundation of these vital institutions. When a health center is forced to reduce hours, lay off staff or close entirely, it’s not just the facility that’s affected, it’s access to cancer screenings, maternal health care, mental health support, chronic disease management and prevention strategies. These are not just services that are affected, these are people’s lives,” he stated.
He concluded by urging support for Community Health Centers during National Health Center Week: “This National Health Center Week, let us not only celebrate the essential role these centers play in our communities, but also speak out against efforts to dismantle them. Every New Yorker, regardless of race, income or zip code, deserves access to the health services they need to live full and healthy lives.”
