Community clinics make a difference

FALLBROOK — With the Governor targeting healthcare access as a priority and the emergence of healthcare reform becoming a key issue in the upcoming election and as the issue of access continues to intensify, community clinics are quickly becoming a safety net and prominent fixtures in cities and towns across California.

A 45-year-old resident of Fallbrook recently woke up feeling dizzy, nauseous and not her usual self. Although she is employed, her company does not offer health insurance. She didn’t know where to turn. Luckily her daughter worked at Fallbrook Family Health Center. She suggested to her mom that she make an appointment with Dr. Andrea Bower, a physician on staff at the health center.

Dr. Bower did the necessary exam and tests and diagnosed the mother with Type 2 diabetes. Her first visit was covered by a grant provided by the tobacco industry, Expanded Access to Primary Care (EAPC). Since her employer does not provide health insurance, the cost of her subsequent care is adjusted by a sliding fee scale based on her income and ability to pay.

“My mother was provided with her test kits and strips at a discount and is now managing her diabetes and doing well,” her daughter said. “We are thankful that the health center is here near our home and it has truly made a difference in our lives.”

Fallbrook Family Health Center, at 617 East Alvarado Street, is owned and operated by Community Health Systems, Inc. (CHSI) in Riverside. CHSI is a California 501©3 not-for-profit organization whose mission is to provide efficient, low-cost and high-quality health and dental care to the surrounding community, especially to those who otherwise could not afford healthcare services, and to improve the health and wellbeing of those they serve.

For more information on Fallbrook Family Health Center, The Fallbrook Women’s Clinic, Fallbrook Dental or Community Health Systems, Inc. go to http://www.chsica.org or call (760) 728-3816.