Published December 16, 2024 at 5:00 AM CST
A nonprofit that provides health services across Dallas has achieved a significant federal milestone, allowing the organization to expand its reach into underserved parts of the county. Prism Health North Texas secured a new federal designation, permitting its 11 locations to offer services on a sliding fee scale based on household income for patients who are underinsured or uninsured. The organization also accepts Medicare and Medicaid.
Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) serve over 29 million patients across the country, primarily in underserved communities.
Dr. John Carlo, CEO of Prism Health North Texas, stated, ‘We want to see doctors in communities. We don’t want to have people travel miles and miles away into large centers and be seen in large systems. We need more neighborhood community health centers.’
The designation classifies the facilities as FQHC Look-Alikes. While they meet federal requirements, they do not receive additional federal funding but can now better serve their community.
City and county leaders highlighted the designation’s importance at a news conference, emphasizing its potential impact on South Dallas, where residents often experience a life expectancy that is significantly lower, in some cases by 22 years, than those living in other parts of the city. Dallas City Council Member Adam Bazaldua remarked, ‘This expansion is not just impactful; it is life-changing for sunny South Dallas. This investment in our community will provide vital care from pediatric services to prenatal support for mothers.’
Residents in Dallas’ 75210 ZIP code face higher infant mortality rates among Black and Hispanic parents and limited access to prenatal care. Prism Health North Texas’ South Dallas Health Center is set to offer women’s health and pediatric services starting next month, aiming to bridge this gap.
Former Dallas City Council member Diane Ragsdale, recognized for her work addressing healthcare disparities, stressed the necessity of such facilities in South Dallas, stating, ‘This provides another comprehensive health care center for the community. The data shows us it is not enough.’
With this new federal designation, the number of Federally Qualified Health Center and Look-Alike locations in Dallas County totals more than 30, as reported by the Health Resources and Services Administration.
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