Professional Technical IVT

FQHC

Also written as: FQHC — Federally Qualified Health Center

Federally Qualified Health Center - a community-based healthcare provider that receives federal funding to serve underserved populations.

Full Definition

Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) are community-based healthcare providers that receive grants under Section 330 of the Public Health Service Act to provide primary care services in underserved areas. Many FQHCs have expanded to include integrated behavioral health services, making them important partners in community psychiatry. FQHCs must serve all patients regardless of ability to pay, charge fees based on ability to pay, and provide comprehensive services including mental health and substance abuse services when feasible.

Usage

Usage note: Distinguish from CMHCs, which focus specifically on mental health.

In Context

"The FQHC integrated mental health services into their primary care model." — Program description
"FQHC status provides enhanced Medicaid reimbursement rates." — Financial report

Also known as

Federally Qualified Health Center Community Health Center

Contrasted with

private practice specialty clinic

Don't confuse with

CMHC community clinic

forensic mental health ← Back to glossary functional assessment