ACCESSING HEALTH SERVICES

We work tirelessly to improve the health-related outcomes of the population. Through quality health services and best practices, providers are capable of offering the necessary treatment to promote healthier lives for their patients. Through the proper resources and education, patients are better able to manage their health and access available services to sustain and advance their well-being. The following information is provided to support the public’s utilization of quality health services in their management of their own health.

VETERANS HEALTH ADMINISTRATION

“The Veterans Health Administration is America’s largest integrated health care system with over 1700 sites of care, serving 8.76 million Veterans each year.” Through their 150 medical centers, nearly 1,400 community-based outpatient clinics, community living centers, Vet Centers and Domiciliaries, with over 53,000 licensed independent health care providers offer comprehensive care to the nation’s service men and women and their families.”

Ways to apply for VA Health Benefits:

  • Online
  • In Person
  • Telephone
  • Mail

Links:

Health Benefits
Application Process
VA Site Directory

CENTERS FOR MEDICARE & MEDICAID SERVICES HOSPITAL COMPARE

Hospital compare has information regarding the quality of care for more than 4,000 Medicare-certified hospitals throughout the United States. This information helps consumers to make decisions about which provider is best suited to meet their needs and encourages hospitals to improve the quality of care they provide. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services recommends consumers go to the nearest hospital in the case of an emergency. The government agency also suggests that consumers plan ahead for their care, discussing the information acquired from the site with their health care provider to decide which hospital will best meet their health care needs.

FEDERALLY QUALIFIED HEALTH CENTERS
Federally Qualified Health Centers  (FQHC) are community-based organizations such as Community Health Centers, Migrant Health Centers, Health Care for the Homeless Programs, and Public Housing Primary Care Programs. FQHCs provide comprehensive primary care and preventative care for all individuals regardless of their health insurance status. FQHCs ask for payments based on the income of the patient.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Health Resources and Services Administration lists the following services as provisions offered by every FQHC:
  1. Checkups when you’re well
  2. Treatment when you’re sick
  3. Complete care when you’re pregnant
  4. Immunizations and checkups for your children
  5. Dental care and prescription drugs for your family
  6. Mental health and substance abuse care if needed

Links:

Find a Health Center

JOINT COMMISSION

The Joint Commission is the foremost authoritative entity in accrediting and certifying health care organizations and programs in the United States. The Joint Commission accreditation and certification is a nationwide symbol of quality that reflects the commitment of organizations to meet and exceed certain performance standards. These recognized institution’s ability to provide safe and effective care of the highest quality and value for the public, suggests they are capable of offering the best value care across all settings.