Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC)

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are community-based healthcare providers that receive federal funding to offer comprehensive services to underserved populations. They focus on delivering primary care, preventive services, and sometimes dental and mental health care, regardless of a patient's ability to pay. FQHCs play a vital role in improving access to healthcare in low-income areas, ensuring that everyone can receive quality medical care. They often operate on a sliding fee scale and are required to meet specific performance and accountability standards to ensure high-quality service.