February is here, marking six months since the opening of the Aurora Wellness Community Health Center (AWCHC). This center has become a vital resource for many in Aurora and surrounding areas. Dr. Kelet Robinson and Dr. Henry Colangelo, key figures at the center, recently discussed its progress, community feedback, and future plans.
From the start, AWCHC has prioritized the community. Dr. Robinson emphasized the significance of its name, stating, “We chose ‘health center’ over ‘clinic.’ The term ‘clinic’ can carry negative feelings for some, so we wanted to create a welcoming space.” The staff’s background in community health ensures they understand and can address the needs of underserved populations effectively.
Dr. Colangelo, who joined in October, shared his enthusiasm for working at AWCHC. “I’ve spent years in community health and felt at home here right away,” he said. “Our team may be small, but we are dedicated to making a big impact.” Dr. Robinson described AWCHC as a neighborhood health center with more capacity for uninsured patients than most facilities.
The community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive. One major advantage is that AWCHC accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and Tricare without a waiting list. Many patients have traveled from far-off communities, like Colorado Springs and Fort Collins, seeking the timely care that AWCHC provides. “Patients are so grateful for the access to care after waiting months elsewhere,” Dr. Colangelo added. Word-of-mouth referrals have also been a testament to the quality of care offered at AWCHC.
Reflecting on the first six months, Dr. Robinson described the experience as “growth and structure,” while Dr. Colangelo noted the challenges and rewards of serving the community’s health needs. Currently, with three providers, AWCHC sees around 48 patients daily. As demand rises, they are considering virtual appointments to expand their reach.
Despite their success, the center faces challenges. Dr. Robinson mentioned a constant need for high-quality primary care, with limited resources as a small clinic. They plan to boost local outreach through community events and partnerships. “We want people to know we are here, dedicated to the Aurora community,” she stated.
As they continue to adapt, the center is seeing increasing requests for primary care, mental health support, and education on navigating the healthcare system. Dr. Robinson noted that many patients also require help with managing traumatic experiences and behavioral health issues. “These are big needs in our community,” she explained.
A challenge also arises with specialty referrals, particularly for those with government insurance. However, the AWCHC team is committed to helping patients understand the referral process, ensuring they feel supported throughout their healthcare journey.
Looking ahead, the AWCHC is excited to welcome additional staff, including new doctors and a part-time psychologist. This expansion will help address the community’s growing needs. Dr. Robinson envisions creating a family medicine approach that can support patients of all ages with various health issues. Training and staff well-being will also be a focus as the center grows.
Dr. Colangelo summed up the experience well, saying, “Being part of something new from the ground up is truly rewarding. We are devoted to providing exceptional primary care for the Aurora community.” The enthusiasm at AWCHC is evident, with the staff excited to meet the health needs of those they serve.
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