Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) in Western New York (WNY) play a critical role in serving historically marginalized communities, which includes low-income individuals, Medicaid beneficiaries, and people of color. The emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic in early 2020 posed unprecedented challenges to healthcare systems worldwide and exacerbated health disparities. FQHCs in WNY found themselves on the frontline of this public health crisis. They played a primary role in addressing immediate healthcare needs and navigating a landscape characterized by uncertainty, resource shortages, and evolving guidelines.

Neighborhood Health Center's leadership participated in in-depth interviews for a study on the impact of COVID-19 on health center operations, communities, and health center preparedness for future public health emergencies. The findings of the study highlight the critical role of FQHCs during public health emergencies and their ability to address healthcare needs in underserved communities.

Click here to read the report.