#USA #Los Angeles #Health #vaccines #CCHC

CCHC's Call for Back-to-School Health

As students across Los Angeles prepare to return to their classrooms, Comprehensive Community Health Centers (CCHC) is urging families to make their health a priority. With the start of the school year marking a pivotal time for many children's health routines, CCHC emphasizes the importance of ensuring that school-required and recommended vaccinations are up-to-date. This initiative not only safeguards the health of students but also contributes to the overall well-being of the entire community.

Dr. Deanah Jibril, the Chief Medical Officer at CCHC, highlights that vaccines play a crucial role in protecting not only the children who receive them but also their families and peers. She explains, “Vaccines aren't just for kids—they help protect grandparents, neighbors, teachers, and anyone your child interacts with.” This statement encapsulates the broader public health perspective, emphasizing that individual health decisions can have significant implications for community health.

CCHC, recognized as a leading Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in Los Angeles, provides accessible healthcare services at various community-based locations throughout the county. They are especially focused on facilitating preventive care, which is pivotal during the back-to-school season. According to CCHC, routine physicals and immunizations are essential for maintaining not only children’s health but also ensuring that they can attend school regularly without health-related interruptions.

Convenient Healthcare Options

For families who may find scheduling challenging, CCHC is committed to providing flexible appointment options. The health centers staff experienced healthcare professionals who offer a variety of services, including comprehensive primary care, pediatric services, women’s health, and other essential health care needs. Families can easily schedule appointments for routine check-ups, sports physicals, and school enrollment requirements.

Additionally, September is designated as National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month, presenting an opportune moment for families to adopt healthier lifestyles. During health visits, CCHC encourages discussions surrounding nutrition, physical activity, sleep hygiene, and other wellness strategies. They aim to empower families to cultivate healthy habits that contribute to better health outcomes for children in the long term. Dr. Jibril underscores this holistic health approach stating, “We use every visit as an opportunity to talk about health holistically; whether it’s immunizations or encouraging more fruits and veggies at home, we’re here to support families every step of the way.”

Importance of Preventive Care

The value of preventive care cannot be overstated. Regular health check-ups ensure that children are current on vaccinations required by schools, which is essential for preventing the spread of serious illnesses within schools and communities. Moreover, these visits allow healthcare providers to assess growth, nutrition, and development, and to conduct early screenings for chronic conditions such as asthma or diabetes.

CCHC's commitment to offering accessible healthcare services extends to families regardless of their insurance status. By operating on a sliding fee scale, the organization ensures that financial constraints do not impede access to essential healthcare services, fostering healthier communities across the Los Angeles area.

CCHC is equipped with a dedicated team of board-certified family practice physicians, pediatricians, and culturally competent support staff. Their focus on delivering compassionate care has made CCHC a trusted resource for families throughout Southern California.

About Comprehensive Community Health Centers (CCHC)

Comprehensive Community Health Centers (CCHC) is a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) active in Los Angeles County. The organization’s mission is to provide quality, accessible, and compassionate care to individuals and families in medically underserved communities. Services offered include medical, dental, optometry, behavioral health, women’s health, podiatry, and preventive care programs, available in multiple languages across various locations in the LA area. For more information about CCHC and the services offered, please visit CCHC Centers.