[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 104 (Wednesday, July 27, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1654]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       SUPPORTING GOALS AND IDEALS OF NATIONAL HEALTH CENTER WEEK

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, July 25, 2005

  Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of H. 
Res. 289, a resolution supporting the goals and ideals of National 
Health Center Week. From August 7-13, numerous organizations will 
collectively promote quality and preventative medical care through 
local health centers.
  It has become increasingly apparent that our healthcare system is not 
only lacking, but also failing those it is meant to serve. There are 
currently an estimated 45 million uninsured individuals living in 
America. This group not only includes 8.4 million children, but also 
homeless and migrant populations across the country. Of those that do 
have health coverage, studies have estimated that as many as 65 million 
individuals remain underinsured. Countless others lack easy and 
affordable access to quality care providers.
  Health centers are an indispensable component of the continuing 
effort to secure medical care for underserved individuals. These 
community-based, non-profit organizations bring health services to 
impoverished areas, which are disproportionately affected by these 
ever-present health care disparities. Through partnerships with 
churches, businesses and other community initiatives, health centers 
are able to touch those that are typically unreachable or marginalized 
by existing healthcare conglomerates.
  Health centers have become American institutions and fundamental 
elements our daily lives. These organizations, operating with minimal 
resources and small, committed staffs are able to serve hundreds within 
their communities. In the state of Florida alone, approximately 500,000 
residents are annually served through local health centers.
  Mr. Speaker, this weeklong celebration of health centers brings 
recognition to the unsung heroes of the healthcare industry. By raising 
awareness we are not only showing our appreciation to those that 
contribute to these efforts, but we are also bringing attention to the 
healthcare alternatives that are available to our communities. I urge 
my colleagues to lend their support to this resolution.

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