Julie Branstrom, CEO of Heartland Community Health Center (HCHC), provided an organizational history and report on current activities. Community Health Care Centers evolved from the Civil Rights movement and operated with the belief that no one should be denied access to health care. The Lawrence clinic got started in the 1990’s in the basement of a church. The clinic grew dramatically and in 2012 became a Federally Qualified Health Center, “solidifying its mission to serve those in need.” Services include primary care, pediatrics, behavioral and psychiatric care, dental care and a pharmacy. HCHC operates a food pantry and works with a number of community health providers. Patients who have insurance are welcome and there is a sliding fee scale for those that don’t. 22,586 patients were served in 2024 at a cost per visit of $115.70. Half of the Board of Directors are former patients.
