Conroe, Texas, May 2, 2017 – At a meeting last week, the Lone Star Family Health Center (LSFHC) Board of Directors signed a letter of congratulations for U.S. Representative Kevin Brady on his receipt of the 2017 Distinguished Community Health Defender Award from the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC). This award recognizes elected officials that advocate for health center funding, co-sponsor important legislation, and engage with the health centers in their districts.

At a luncheon at LSFHC in 2016, Brady stated that he believes that LSFHC plays a vital role by providing quality healthcare to families in the community through a fiscally responsible program, while also providing jobs and training for future healthcare professionals.

Brady also noted last year that while there is strong support for Community Health Centers in Congress, long-term funding can be a challenge. According to NACHC, without action by congress to support funding for Community Health Centers beyond September 30, 2017, there will be substantial negative consequences, including an estimated loss of 2,800 health center locations, 51,000 jobs and access to care for more than 9 million patients nationwide.

“Representative Brady’s support of LSFHC and the Community Health Center model has been incredible,” states CEO Karen Harwell, “He has been vital to our success and ability to serve this community.”

Brady has been a longtime supporter of LSFHC and its contributions to his district. He has visited the LSFHC clinic on multiple occasions and met with staff and board members to understand the full extent of services and programming. Brady vocally speaks out on behalf of LSFHC and its ability to fill the healthcare gaps in Montgomery County.

“Rep. Brady recognizes the impact that LSFHC makes in Montgomery County,” says Harwell, “We are appreciative of his advocacy in Washington for the continued funding of our Health Center, and Community Health Centers nationwide.”

LSFHC served 28,057 patients in 2016 through 90,715 patient encounters. More than 72% of these patients live below the Federal Poverty Level. It employs more than 180 community members across three locations, graduates 10 Family Medicine Physicians annually and works with Lone Star College and local school districts to train the next generation of healthcare professionals.

About Lone Star Family Health Center

Founded in 2002, Lone Star Family Health Center is a 501(c)(3), non-profit, Federally Qualified Health Center with a mission to provide compassionate, affordable healthcare and prepare tomorrow’s family medicine professionals. The health center’s main location is at 605 South Conroe Medical Drive next to Conroe Regional Medical Center with satellite clinics in Spring and Willis, TX. Appointments may be scheduled by calling 936.539.4004.