Portsmouth Community Health Center Inc.

Portsmouth Community Health Center Inc., also known as Hampton Roads Community Health Center (HRCHC), is a nonprofit organization founded in 1995 to address the shortage of primary care services for uninsured residents in Portsmouth, Virginia.

Background

The establishment of HRCHC was prompted by a study conducted by the Portsmouth Health Services Advisory Committee in the early 1990s. This study revealed a significant shortage and mis-distribution of primary care physicians, affecting an estimated 37,000 medically indigent residents in Portsmouth. Many of these individuals were employed but lacked health insurance, often relying on emergency rooms for primary care.

Mission and Services

Hampton Roads Community Health Center is dedicated to providing quality and affordable health services to its community. It serves both insured and uninsured patients, offering a range of services including:

• Primary Medical Care: Family practice, internal medicine, OB/Gynecology, and pediatrics.
• Behavioral Health: Counseling and mental health services.
• Dental Care: Comprehensive dental services.
• Medication Assistance: Support for accessing necessary medications.
• Telehealth: Remote health consultations.

Accessibility and Funding

HRCHC receives federal funding and operates as a federally qualified health center. It offers a sliding scale fee for uninsured patients, ensuring that healthcare is accessible to all regardless of ability to pay. The organization accepts most commercial insurances, Virginia Medicaid, and Medicare.

Impact and Events

HRCHC has been involved in various community health initiatives, including health fairs and educational programs aimed at increasing health awareness and promoting disease prevention. These events often focus on providing health screenings and disaster preparedness information to encourage positive health behavior changes.

Evolution and Expansion

Initially starting with two doctors and eleven staff members, HRCHC has grown to become a comprehensive healthcare provider in the Hampton Roads region. Despite its name change, its commitment to serving the community's health needs has remained consistent.