Hoosier State Today

A recent analysis by the Indiana Primary Health Care Association (IPHCA) and Capital Link has shed light on the impact of Community Health Centers in Indiana during 2023. The report highlights both health and economic benefits provided by these centers to the state's residents.

The data reveals that Community Health Centers delivered primary care services to 731,729 Hoosiers last year. Of those served, 85% were low-income individuals, defined as living below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Additionally, over half of these patients were covered under Indiana’s Medicaid program.

Significant cost savings for Indiana's Medicaid program were achieved through these services. According to research findings, Medicaid patients receiving care at Community Health Centers incurred costs that were 24% lower than those treated in other healthcare settings. This translated into approximately $943.7 million saved in Medicaid expenses for the state in 2023. Furthermore, the centers contributed an estimated $1.4 billion in savings to Indiana’s overall health system by reducing emergency room visits and effectively managing chronic diseases.

Ben Harvey, CEO of IPHCA, stated: “Community Health Centers are the backbone of Indiana’s healthcare system, ensuring access to care for all Hoosiers while generating tremendous cost savings for the State.” He emphasized that amidst ongoing discussions on addressing rising Medicaid costs in Indiana, this report demonstrates how investment in primary health care can serve as both a public health measure and an economic strategy.

For further details about the Indiana Primary Health Care Association and access to the full report, additional information is available online.