HHS funds $150 million for 236 health centers for primary care

BETHESDA, Md., Nov. 8 (UPI) -- The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services funded $150 million under the Affordable Care Act to support 236 new health centers, the secretary says.

Kathleen Sebelius, secretary of HHS, said the funding will help create primary care services for approximately 1.25 million patients in areas with historically high uninsured rates.

"We are committed to providing more people across the country with the quality patient-centered care they deserve," Sebelius said in a statement.

"Health centers are key partners in the improving access to quality, affordable healthcare services for those who need it most. With new, affordable health insurance options available under the Affordable Care Act, community health centers are also key partners in helping uninsured residents sign up for health coverage -- many of whom have been locked out of the health insurance market for years."

Since the beginning of 2009, health centers have added 4 million patients and more than 35,000 new full-time positions, Sebelius said.

Approximately 1,200 health centers operate more than 9,000 service delivery sites that provide care to more than 21 million patients in every state.