Hindsight is 2021

Looking back on 2021, the word “resiliency” comes to mind. For the second year, OACHC witnessed this word in action. As COVID-19 variants waned and raged, Ohio’s Community Health Centers remained steadfast in their mission to provide access to the best (and safest) care. New sites were opened, services lines expanded, more Ohioans had access to care. From our OACHC team to the teams of health center heroes across the state, we thank you for your dedication to the health center movement.

Meg Baumann

Communication & Events Coordinator

Meg Baumann is the Communication & Events Coordinator at OACHC, where she works on website upkeep, event logistics, and communication needs for the organization. She is responsible for the creation and distribution of Weekly and Monthly eNewsletters as well as blog posts sent out by OACHC. Meg assists the Director of Communication & Events by promoting and implementing OACHC's bi-annual conferences and training programs hosted by OACHC. Additionally, she supports the development of social media campaigns and member communications. Meg holds previous experience in events & marketing from her work with various non-profits based in Cleveland, Ohio. She graduated from Cleveland State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications Management .

Advocacy Matters

Ohio’s State Budget, House Bill 110 included many provisions that invest in continued access to quality, affordable health care for Ohioans. Notables include:

• Primary Care Workforce Initiative (PCWI) – funding maintained!
• Medicaid eligibility and services maintained
• Support for Student Wellness and Success Funds
• Medicaid coverage for pregnant women for the maximum postpartum period permitted under federal law (instead of for 60 days after giving birth)
• Continuation of Comprehensive Primary Care Program (CPC) and CPC Kids
• Investments in improving infant/maternal health and health equity

Additionally, health center advocates applauded Ohio’s 340B legislation, SB 263, which went into effect April 12, 2021. While 340B stateside has seen big wins, the federal fight continues into 2022.

Finally, what 2021 legislative health center briefing would not include COVID-19 mentions? The expanded use of telehealth beyond the pandemic under the Department of Medicaid continues to be a lifesaver for both patients and providers alike. This flexibility has allowed health centers to continue to provide access to care and has proven an innovative tool in “treating patients where they are.” In addition, OACHC was extremely supportive of expanding the role of pharmacists to support pandemic recovery advocating for their ability to use telehealth services and administer vaccines.

As for 2021, we currently have:

Workforce Development-Ohio Primary Care Workforce Initiative

2021 OPCWI Preceptor of the Year

Courtney Levine, DDS of Community Health Services, Fremont

In recognition of the important role preceptors play in mentoring and training the next generation of health care providers, OACHC initiated the Annual OPCWI Preceptor of the Year Award. A total of 16 nominations for outstanding preceptors were submitted detailing preceptors’ dedication and exemplary qualities for teaching, clinical reasoning, constructive feedback, effective communication, interpersonal skills, and patient satisfaction.

Dr. Levine is a highly skilled dentist and demonstrates an ongoing commitment to education and learning. She has spent her career working in FQHCs and the past eight years at Community Health Services (CHS). Her students observe the care, compassion, and unwavering respect she shows for every patient. As a result, Dr. Levine has been a key factor in students completing rotations at CHS and making the decision to work for CHS or another FQHC after graduation.

Despite the continuing effects of COVID in 2021, preceptors from 44 Ohio health centers spent 79,151 hours teaching 746 future health professionals and health centers were reimbursed over $1.23 Million.