Urgent: Pitkin County Faces Potential Loss of Vital Nonprofit Health Clinic Services

Community Health Services (CHS) has been a lifeline in Pitkin County, offering vital healthcare to those in need since 1971. They focus on helping individuals who are low-income or uninsured, ensuring everyone has access to necessary medical care.

However, the future looks uncertain. Recent budget cuts proposed by the Trump administration could eliminate crucial funding for programs like Title X, which supports family planning. Logan Hood, the executive director of CHS, has watched the demand for these services grow significantly in the Roaring Fork Valley. “Six in ten women who come to us for contraceptive help rely on CHS as their only healthcare provider,” she explains.

Linda Vieira, a nurse midwife at CHS for nearly 50 years, underscores the importance of financial assistance. “Without it, many women wouldn’t have the ability to decide on family planning,” she notes. This service is critical for many families, especially in a region where access can be limited.

In addition to family planning, CHS offers cancer screenings, including free mammograms for women without insurance. Executive Director Hood emphasizes that many women would otherwise lack access to such care, making this program essential.

Another key service is “Smiles for Students,” which provides preventive dental care to local children. This program is vital because affordable dental care is hard to find in the area. During the school year, CHS serves about 3,000 students, reflecting a significant community need.

Since the pandemic, CHS has also seen a ramp-up in their immunization program, driven by local support for vaccines. “The number of people seeking vaccinations has doubled, and we’re committed to continuing this critical service,” Hood says.

CHS offers a range of other services, including STI testing, contraceptives, and support for issues like food insecurity and mental health. These services are crucial for many individuals and families who would otherwise be without support.

Funding remains a pressing concern for CHS. Hood shared that because of recent state grant adjustments, they will receive about $100,000 instead of the expected $125,000, which makes financial planning more difficult. “Every year, our costs increase, but funding is not guaranteed,” she adds. This financial uncertainty is common in healthcare, especially post-COVID, as many Colorado residents have lost Medicaid coverage.

“It feels like an uphill battle to secure funds,” Hood says. “Philanthropy is more important now than ever.” In 2024, CHS had over 2,500 patient visits, showcasing the necessity of their services. For more details, you can visit this link.

As CHS navigates these changes, its commitment to being a safe and trusted resource amidst challenging times remains stronger than ever.

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