Celebrating 50 Years of Impact: HealthReach’s Commitment to Rural Healthcare Excellence

WATERVILLE – Connie Coggins, the President and CEO of HealthReach, is excited to celebrate a big milestone. In 2025, HealthReach Community Health Centers will turn 50. For half a century, they have been dedicated to providing quality and affordable healthcare to rural Maine. Founded in 1975, HealthReach aims to serve areas that don’t have easy access to medical care in Central and Western Maine. They offer a variety of services like primary care, preventative care, dental, behavioral, and even podiatric care.

The story of HealthReach began in Bingham, Maine, when the local doctor retired. The community rallied together, dreaming of a place where everyone would feel welcome to receive care. They raised funds to renovate an old house, turning it into the first community health center, known as the Bingham Area Health Center.

Over the years, HealthReach has grown to include 12 health centers across Maine, along with a school-based health center and dental services in Bingham and Strong. As a nonprofit organization, HealthReach focuses on patient care rather than profits. Today, about 300 staff members help around 26,000 patients each year. Interestingly, many members of the HealthReach Governing Board are patients themselves, ensuring that the voices of those they serve shape their mission.

As HealthReach approaches its landmark anniversary, it’s worth noting how healthcare needs have shifted over the decades. In 1975, communities faced challenges from a lack of services. Now, according to a recent report by the Maine Rural Health Research Center, nearly 80% of rural hospitals operate at a loss, making organizations like HealthReach even more critical.

Additionally, access to healthcare remains a pressing issue. A 2021 survey indicated that 36% of rural residents in Maine report difficulty in accessing care. HealthReach plays a vital role in addressing this gap, accepting Medicare, MaineCare, and various major insurance providers. Their Affordable Care Program helps those who are uninsured or underinsured find the support they need.

In terms of finances, HealthReach is projected to receive $4,436,654 in federal assistance for 2025, which will make up about 12% of their project budget. The rest will be covered through non-governmental sources, demonstrating a strong foundation built on community support and funding.

As we look ahead to the next 50 years, HealthReach stands as a model of patient-centered care, showcasing how a community can come together to create lasting change. With the ongoing changes in healthcare landscapes, the importance of accessible, affordable services has never been more evident. Here’s to HealthReach’s continued success and the positive impact they have on their communities!

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