Board highlights commitment to community care

SANDUSKY — The Erie County Community Health Center is proud to highlight the leadership and dedication of its co-applicant board of directors — a group of community members guiding the health center's mission, growth and commitment to high-quality, accessible care for the Erie County region. In the world of public health, the best care happens when the community has a seat at the table. At the community health center, that seat is occupied by the federally qualified health center co-applicant board, a group of local volunteers whose mission is to ensure that health care remains accessible, equitable and deeply rooted in the needs of Erie County residents. The Erie County Community Health Center operates as a federally qualified health center. This special federal designation means the center must meet rigorous standards for quality and affordability. A key requirement of being a federally qualified health center is that the center must be governed by a board in which at least 51% of members are actual patients of the clinic. This co-applicant board works hand-in-hand with the Erie County board of health to oversee clinical services, approve budgets and ensure the health center is meeting its goals. Because they live, work, and receive care right here in the community, members of this board provide a perspective that no textbook or data sheet could ever replace. A legacy of local service The board is led by: • President Dave Jenkins • Vice president Regina Pool • Secretary Flora Irby • Treasurer Robert Carter • Members Karen Balconi Ghezzi, Mary Bohn Supina, Frankie Byrd, Janet Mesenburg and Nestor Rave Collectively, they represent a wide cross-section of Erie County. Some members — like Irby, Carter and Byrd — have served for more than a decade, providing a steady hand and a wealth of institutional knowledge. Their longevity is a testament to their unwavering commitment to the health of their neighbors. "I joined the board because I care about making sure everyone in our community can get health care when they need it," Mesenburg said. "The health center is more than a place to see a doctor: It's a trusted health care agency for families and a support system for the community." Jenkins added, "By bringing medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy and public health services together, (the) Erie County Community Health Center strengthens families and improves long-term health outcomes in our region." Supina, who has worked with the health department for years, reflected on its growth: "I watched the health department expand from opening a detox to providing comprehensive services across the community," Supina said. "The leadership is progressive and focused on affordable care for all." A 'gold standard of care Recently recognized with a Gold Healthcare Award, the Erie County Community Health Center has been nationally recognized for clinical excellence, access and innovative service delivery. "This award isn't just a trophy — it shows that our community health delivery model works," Jenkins said. "We provide high-quality, patient-centered care that meets rigorous national standards, improves health outcomes and reduces disparities by ensuring underserved populations can access care." Board members agree that the award reflects more than clinical outcomes. Supina noted, "The award reflects the superior services and care rendered at the health center. I am proud to be a board member of the Erie County Community Health Center and its very progressive leadership in looking out for the health of our community." The board highlighted key programs that exemplify this excellence: • School-based health centers: "By bringing services directly into schools, like EHOVE, we remove barriers for families and young people, providing primary care, immunizations, chronic care management, mental health support and dental services right where students spend their days," Jenkins said. Supina added that school-based centers also improve access for families and older adults. • Pharmacy services: Mesenburg emphasized that on-site pharmacy services help patients get medications immediately, reinforcing the Erie County Community Health Center as a one-stop patient-centered medical home. Byrd summed up the impact. "The health center cares for everyone — from newborns to older adults — with compassion, skill and a genuine commitment to making Erie County healthier." Strong fiscal stewardship, integrated care The Erie County Community Health Center maintains a stable and responsible financial position, enabling expansion of services while staying true to its mission of serving all community members. "The health center is fiscally stable, responsibly managed and well-positioned for continued growth," Jenkins said. "Through strong oversight and diversified funding, we can reinvest in services while serving everyone, regardless of ability to pay." Board members also highlighted the Erie County Community Health Center's integrated, whole-person care. Patients can access primary medical care, dental care and mental/behavioral health services in one coordinated system. "No one is turned away because of insurance or ability to pay," Mesenburg said. "We see patients with Medicaid, Medicare, private insurance and those who pay out-of-pocket." Accessible, walk-in care with public health integration The Erie County Community Health Center's walk-in, low-barrier care model ensures patients receive timely access without unnecessary delays. "We offer same-day and evening appointments, and patients don't always need a scheduled visit," Mesenburg said. "During a visit, patients may also get help with dental care, (woman, infant and children) services, pharmacy needs and public health screenings, like lead testing. If lead exposure is a concern, we connect families with the right resources, including lead abatement support." Supina highlighted the welcoming environment. "The health center is accessible to all with facility improvements, such as a covered rear area for elders or those with mobility challenges," Supina said. "Staff educate patients about the full range of services available, helping them schedule recommended care." Continuing the mission Guided by a dedicated board and progressive leadership, the Erie County Community Health Center will continue expanding services, strengthening partnerships and delivering integrated, community-centered care throughout Erie County and the surrounding region. As the Erie County Health Department continues to grow, it does so with the confidence that it is being guided by people who truly care. To our federally qualified health center co-applicant board: Thank you for your service, your vision and your heart.