By Alex Sange, MPP, Federal Affairs
Why 340B Matters
Community health center patients rely on their local health centers each day to overcome challenges to accessing affordable health care – most are uninsured or underinsured, low income, and living in communities with few health care providers who will treat them. For many patients, their local health center is the best, and perhaps only, place they can receive comprehensive primary and preventive care for themselves and their families. A vitally important part of this care is access to affordable prescription medications. Health centers are largely able to provide this benefit to patients through their participation in the federal 340B program, which allows health centers to purchase certain medications at a lower cost and invest savings back into their communities. Through their participation in 340B, health centers are able to stretch scarce resources even further, expanding access in places other providers will not locate, and offering the full spectrum of services that their patients need. 340B helps health centers fulfill their mission to provide access to comprehensive, cost-effective care to all patients regardless of their ability to pay.
Inaugural FREE 340B University for Health Centers
To ensure health centers are up to date on this important federal program, NACHC is pleased to offer a new educational opportunity, 340B University, as a part of our upcoming Community Health Institute & Expo (CHI). With support from the Prime Vendor Program, this inaugural health center-specific workshop will offer health center and PCA leadership, staff, and board members the opportunity to learn more about the benefits and requirements for participating in the 340B program specific to community health centers. This exciting new program is no-cost to health centers and PCAs, and will take place on Saturday, August 24th from 8:30am – 4pm, and Continuing Education credits are available. Health centers and PCAs may register online for the program here. We look forward to seeing you in Chicago!