[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 118 (Tuesday, July 11, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E651]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       RECOGNIZING THE SOUTHERN MISSOURI COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER

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                            HON. JASON SMITH

                              of missouri

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, July 11, 2023

  Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the 
Southern Missouri Community Health Center, of West Plains, Missouri, on 
celebrating its 20th anniversary of service to the Greater West Plains 
Community and surrounding areas.
  Since receiving its first patient in February 2003, the Southern 
Missouri Community Health Center has provided access to excellent 
quality, affordable medical, dental and mental healthcare to all 
individuals in need in Howell, Oregon and Ripley counties and the 
surrounding area.
  With more than 65 employees, including physicians, nurse 
practitioners, dentists, dental hygienists, and licensed clinical 
social workers, SMCHC provides service to approximately 9,000 
individuals annually. The Southern Missouri Community Health Center is 
a critical element of the local healthcare system that improves 
healthcare outcomes by allowing individuals to overcome barriers to 
healthcare access, and by acting as a front-line response to unexpected 
crises, such as natural disasters, and emerging healthcare crises. 
Governed by a patient majority board, the SMCHC ensures that each of 
its patients are the top priority.
  The impact of the Southern Missouri Community Health Center stretches 
far beyond healthcare, as the Center makes a long-lasting positive mark 
on lives of the members of its community.
  It is my great pleasure to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the 
Southern Missouri Community Health Center and applaud its hard work and 
commitment to providing excellent, accessible services to its 
community.

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