PROVO, Utah – August 12, 2010 – After 12 years of providing specialized healthcare to Utah Valley residents, Community Health Connect has opened new doors to serve community members in need. The new location, 591 S. State St., is part of the Mountainlands Community Health Center Building and brings together three agencies aimed at providing healthcare to low-income individuals and families.
Community Health Connect has created a network of doctors, dentists, hygienists, labs, hospitals and surgical centers who volunteer time and resources to contribute services for those who can’t afford specialized health care or are uninsured. Care coordinators screen patients for needed care and set up needed appointments.
“When medical limitations keep people from going to work or school, it creates a cycle of poverty that can’t be broken until they can recover,” said Starr Stratford, Executive Director.
“These doctors and dentists, who provide expensive procedures for free, put people back on their feet and break the cycle,” she said.
More than a million dollars in services were donated in 2009 when patients were connected to necessary healthcare. Donations from members of the community made it possible to expand the network of providers and offer more care than ever before. To donate or volunteer, visit the organization’s website at communityhealthconnect.org.
Community Health Connect was organized in 1998 as part of an effort to reduce unnecessary use of hospital emergency departments and to help the community focus on preventative health. The program is designed to help low-income, uninsured Utah County residents receive specialty medical and dental care. An estimated 90 percent of Mountainlands Community Health Center patients are eligible for Community Health Connect services. A recent office move to join Mountainlands and the Volunteer Care Clinic in one facility will provide more convenient services to members of the community.
