Fiscal Year 2023 Capital Assistance for Hurricane Response and Recovery Efforts (CARE) - Title: Enhancing Emergency Preparedness and Continuity of Care for Underserved Populations in Mitchell and Yancey Counties Abstract: This project proposal seeks federal funding from the Health Resources and Services Administration to increase the capacity and capability of Mountain Community Health Partnership (MCHP), a federally qualified health center (FQHC) in western North Carolina, to effectively prepare for, respond to, and recover from future emergencies and disasters. The primary objective is to ensure the continuity of access to high-quality primary care services for underserved populations in our region. To achieve this goal, we propose three key projects: (1) acquisition of new equipment for all clinic sites, (2) emergency preparedness renovations at Celo Health Center, and (3) emergency preparedness renovations at Bakersville Health Center. Project 1: Acquisition of New Equipment for All Clinic Sites (Budget: $315,716) To enhance our emergency response capabilities, we aim to invest in state-of-the-art equipment to be utilized across all clinic sites. This will include security and communication systems and essential emergency supplies, and clinical equipment. By equipping our clinics with the latest technology and resources, we will ensure that our healthcare providers have the necessary tools to deliver timely and efficient care during emergencies and disasters. Project 2: Emergency Preparedness Renovations at Celo Health Center (Budget: $86,100) Celo Health Center is a critical facility serving a high number of underserved patients in Yancey County, North Carolina. We propose essential renovations and enhancements to safeguard the continuity of care during emergencies. This includes improving the operational functionality of the facility, establishing secure storage for emergency supplies and medications, and maximizing clinical space to accommodate increased patient flow in the event of an emergency. These upgrades will enable Celo Health Center to function as a resilient healthcare hub capable of providing uninterrupted services to vulnerable populations during emergencies. Project 3: Emergency Preparedness Renovations at Bakersville Health Center (Budget: $88,179) Bakersville Health Center is another vital healthcare facility catering to a high number of underserved patients in Mitchell County, North Carolina. We propose critical renovations and modifications to ensure its resilience in the face of emergencies. This includes improving the operational functionality of the facility, establishing secure storage for emergency supplies and medications, expanding lab capacity and services, and maximizing clinical space to accommodate increased patient flow in the event of an emergency. By fortifying Bakersville Health Center, we will strengthen our ability to provide essential primary care services to underserved populations during emergencies and disasters. Through the implementation of these three projects, MCHP will significantly increase its capacity and capability to prepare for, respond to, and recover from future emergencies and disasters. The continuity of access to high-quality primary care services for underserved populations will be safeguarded, ensuring their well-being and reducing healthcare disparities in our community. This grant will be instrumental in helping us fulfill our mission of providing equitable healthcare to all, irrespective of socioeconomic status or geographical location.
