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Access and quality health care is critical. If everyone woke up tomorrow with an insurance card, it wouldn't help unless they also had access to a doctor - and unless the care provided was excellent.

The existing and expanding Community Health Center model emphasizes access to high-quality care, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.

Community Health Centers are now the "health care home" for 18 million people, and patients are seen regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Northwest Colorado Community Health Center in Craig is one of America's 1,200 Federally Qualified Health Centers.

Aug. 9 through 15 is National Health Center Week, and nationwide celebrations will remind folks about the vital contributions of health centers. We are models for providing quality primary and preventive care, managing chronic disease and reducing health disparities. And this care is accessible because it's affordable, culturally competent and available in tough times; with so many people getting laid off and losing insurance, what's more important than that?

To learn more about our health center and to meet our team of qualified providers, join us from 1 to 5 p.m. Wednesday for "Caring for Kids." The event will include drop-in appointments with Dr. Linda Geiss, visiting pediatrician, and all health center providers for school physicals, sports physicals, and well child checks. CHP/Medicaid and CHC eligibility/enrollment, immunizations, WIC enrollment, vision screenings, dental screenings and mental health screenings also will be available at no charge.

Other fun activities include face painting, games, an art corner, refreshments and giveaways. Spanish interpreters will be available. For more information or to make an appointment, call 824-8233.

Susan Birch, CEO

Gisela Garrison, Health Center director

Diana Hornung, M.D., family practice physician and medical director of the Northwest Colorado Community Health Center