Urgent Call to Action: How You Can Help Save Our Community Health Centers Today!

Rhode Island’s eight community health centers play a vital role in the state’s healthcare system, serving over 200,000 residents—around one in five people. These centers, like Wood River Health, are often the first point of care for those in need of primary healthcare, chronic disease management, and mental health services. They cater especially to those who are most vulnerable, including low-income families and uninsured individuals.

Currently, these health centers face a severe financial crisis that jeopardizes their ability to provide essential services. Without immediate legislative action, they may have to close their doors, reduce services, or lay off staff. Such outcomes would push many Rhode Islanders into emergency rooms for basic care, worsening health conditions, and increasing costs for everyone.

The challenges aren’t only about potential cuts to federal Medicaid. Rhode Island faces a shortfall in state Medicaid reimbursement rates, along with reductions in the 340B drug pricing program, which offers discounted medications to low-income patients. These financial strains put the future of community health centers at risk.

To address this crisis, legislation has been introduced that targets both Medicaid reimbursement (H6046/S0896) and the 340B program (H5634/S0114). The proposed Medicaid adjustments would require a $10 million investment from the state, while the 340B fix would not burden taxpayers as it shifts costs to drug manufacturers.

Recently, Anchor Medical Associates announced plans to close by June 30, 2025, leaving about 25,000 Rhode Islanders in need of new healthcare providers. If more centers are forced to shut down, we could be looking at a loss of access for another 200,000 residents, putting immense pressure on our entire healthcare system.

Community health centers have been crucial during times of crisis, such as the COVID-19 pandemic when they provided vital services and vaccinations. According to a recent survey by the National Association of Community Health Centers, over 90% of patients report satisfaction with the care they receive at these centers. This highlights their importance in maintaining health equity.

As we face these challenges, it’s essential for Rhode Islanders to understand the crucial role these health centers play in our communities. Advocacy is important now more than ever. For more information on how to support these efforts, visit SaveOurHealthCenters.org.

Alison L. Croke
President and CEO of Wood River Health
Secretary of the Board of Directors for the Rhode Island Health Center Association

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