TTUHSC School of Nursing Celebrates 10-Year Anniversary of the Abilene Community Health Center
The Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center (TTUHSC) School of Nursing hosted a 10-Year Anniversary Celebration and Open House for the Abilene Community Health Center Monday.
The 10-Year Anniversary Celebration began with remarks from the TTUHSC School of Nursing, the Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) board and the Abilene Chamber of Commerce. Following the ceremony, community members attended tours of the facility.
The center is one of 71 FQHCs in Texas according to the Texas Health and Human Services.
FQHCs provide comprehensive health care services to underserved communities; help
reduce or eliminate health concerns in the community among high-risk populations;
and integrate student clinical experiences to provide effective delivery of health
care services.
Linda McMurry, DNP, RN, TTUHSC School of Nursing associate dean for clinical services and community engagement, said that more than 10 years ago Abilene was the largest city in the state of Texas without an FQHC.
“In 2013-2014, the School of Nursing and FQHC leadership began meeting with a group of community stakeholders in Abilene who were exploring ways to improve access to health care for their community,” McMurry said. “The community invited the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center School of Nursing to expand their FQHC to the Abilene community. The grant was submitted and awarded in 2015.”
The Abilene Community Health Center officially opened on August 26, 2015, with one primary care provider, continuing the Nurse-Led model of care. The center has since expanded to three full-time primary care providers and behavioral health care services.
The center also provides prescription assistance, immunizations, care management, physical exams for all ages, minor injury care and transportation.
Holly Wei, Ph.D., RN, TTUHSC School of Nursing dean, said since opening, the center
has provided care to more than 11,504 unduplicated patients and completed 63,710 patient
visits.
“For 10 years, this clinic has stood as a trusted source of care and compassion for the Abilene community,” Wei said. “Its legacy is built on the dedication of every provider, staff member and patient who has made wellness a shared priority. We celebrate this collaboration between this clinic, our school, our patients and the Abilene community.”
For more information about the Abilene Community Health Center, call (325) 696-0600 or visit our website.
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