Representatives Debbie Dingell and Analilia Mejia Visit Packard Health During National Health Center Week

Representatives Dingell and Mejia at a standing outside Packard Health Carpenter clinic with Packard Health staff and board members
L to R: Board Chair Margaret Calarco, Board Member Sharon Moore, Pharmacy Manager Laura Lollio, Representative Debbie Dingell, Representative Analilia Mejia, Board Member Edd Snyder, Chief Quality Officer Donyale Hamilton, Executive Director Ray Rion, Chief Operating Officer Oryanna Diem, Senior Practice Manager Latechia Howard, and Director of Behavioral Health Corey Telin

As part of National Health Center Week, Packard Health was pleased to welcome U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (MI-06) y U.S. Representative Analilia Mejia (NJ-10) for a discussion with staff and board members about the vital role community health centers play in improving access to care and the potential impact of upcoming federal Medicaid changes. Representatives Dingell and Mejia have been outspoken about concerns that proposed Medicaid reductions could affect patients, healthcare providers, and communities nationwide.

During the visit, Packard Health leaders shared the challenges community health centers are facing today and the concerns surrounding future Medicaid policy changes. The conversation focused on how Medicaid helps connect patients to primary care, behavioral health services, preventive care, and chronic disease management, and how changes to the program could create barriers to care for many individuals and families.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of strong local partnerships in advancing community health. Packard Health works closely with healthcare providers, schools, social service agencies, housing organizations, and other community partners to address both medical needs and the social factors that influence health outcomes. These collaborations help ensure patients have access to coordinated care, supportive services, and resources that promote long-term health and well-being.

National Health Center Week is an opportunity to recognize the essential work of community health centers and the partnerships that make that work possible. Packard Health was grateful for the opportunity to share the experiences of our patients and care teams and to demonstrate the important role community health centers play in strengthening the health of our region.

We thank Representatives Dingell and Mejia for taking the time to visit Packard Health, engage with our staff and board members, and discuss the future of healthcare access for the communities we serve.