Governor Mike Braun has decided to exempt Indiana’s Federally Qualified Health Centers from proposed changes to the 340B Medicaid program, according to an April 23 announcement by the Indiana Primary Health Care Association.
The decision is seen as significant for patients and communities that rely on community health centers for primary care, behavioral health, dental services, pharmacy access, and other essential supports. The exemption aims to protect healthcare access for vulnerable residents across the state.
“We are deeply grateful to Governor Braun for his leadership and for recognizing the critical role community health centers play in Indiana’s healthcare system,” said Ben Harvey, CEO of the Indiana Primary Health Care Association. “This decision demonstrates a clear commitment to protecting care for the patients and communities that rely on health centers every day. Governor Braun heard the concerns that were raised, engaged thoughtfully on the issue, and made the right decision for Indiana’s FQHCs.”
Harvey also acknowledged administration officials who listened directly to stakeholders about how proposed changes could have affected both providers and patients. He said their engagement helped lead to a positive outcome: “The strength of the response from across Indiana made clear just how much community health centers matter,” Harvey said. “We are thankful to the many advocates, local leaders, and legislators who helped lift up this issue and ensure that the voice of Indiana’s health center community was heard.”
The association promotes affordable healthcare through outreach initiatives statewide according to its official website. It supports community health centers with programs aimed at improving quality and accessibility of care according to its official website, while representing these centers in policy efforts at both state and national levels according to its official website. The group collaborates with various entities on advocacy work according to its official website and provides resources such as workforce support programs according to its official website.
Indiana’s community health centers plan ongoing collaboration with Governor Braun’s administration “to advance practical, patient-centered solutions that strengthen access, improve outcomes, and support healthier communities across the state.”
