ROANOKE, Va. — In many small towns, finding basic healthcare has become a real challenge. Some people lack insurance while others face long waits, as there aren’t enough doctors and healthcare workers available.
This year, we are focusing on rural healthcare issues and exploring potential solutions.
A key player in this fight is the Community Health Center of the New River Valley. This center saw 36,000 patient visits last year for a range of services, including medical, dental, and mental health support.
One person helped significantly by this center is Chris Ratcliffe. Once a star football player, Ratcliffe struggled with pain medication addiction for over 15 years. “It was a constant battle,” he shared. With the support and compassion of the Community Health Center, he found the help he needed to begin his recovery. “There was no judgment. I could be honest about my struggles,” he added.
The Community Health Center started nearly 50 years ago as a free clinic run by volunteers. In 2014, it became a federally qualified health center, gaining federal funding to help more people. Now, with clinics in several locations and plans for more, it serves patients who might otherwise fall through the cracks, including those on Medicaid and Medicare.
“60% of our patients are on Medicaid, and 10% are uninsured,” said the center’s CEO, Michelle Brauns. “We aim to reach everyone, from the underserved to those with insurance.”
Space is a growing concern at the center. The dental program has a waitlist of over 900 patients. Dr. Alex Wood, the dental director, recalls an emotional moment with a patient whose front teeth he fixed. “She started crying with joy,” he remembered. Such experiences highlight the significance of this center’s work.
U.S. Senator Tim Kaine recently visited and commented on the essential role of community health centers in rural areas. “Without them, we’d be in rough shape,” he said, noting the critical need in parts of Virginia where few healthcare providers are available.
To tackle these challenges, the center is working on a new building to expand services. Chief Medical Officer Rebecca King-Mallory expressed excitement about the new facilities, which will allow the hiring of additional staff and include more services like pharmacy and physical therapy.
Overall, this expansion is projected to cost around $18 million, up from an initial estimate of $14 million. The center is actively fundraising to meet this goal, aiming to raise an additional $3 to $4 million.
Chris Ratcliffe knows firsthand the impact this center can have. “There’s a wide range of patients here, from those with good healthcare to those without. Everyone deserves help,” he emphasized.
For more information, you can visit the Community Health Center of the New River Valley.
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