Congressman Mike Haridopolos visited Treasure Coast Community Health’s (TCCH) Gifford Health Center last week to observe its critical role in serving Indian River County.
The visit offered Haridopolos a close-up look at TCCH’s comprehensive healthcare services, which include family medicine, behavioral health, dental, vision, and pharmacy care across eight locations. A new West location near the I-95 and State Road 20 interchange is set to open soon.
During the tour, Haridopolos met with TCCH Executive Vice President Heather Miranda, DrPH, and Frank Isele, Executive Director of the Indian River County Hospital District. TCCH serves approximately 35,000 unique patients each year, facilitating over 120,000 patient encounters.
Despite its reach, the organization faces challenges, including long wait times for dental and behavioral health services and difficulties recruiting physicians due to limited financial resources.
Haridopolos addressed local concerns about potential Medicaid cuts, clarifying that traditional Medicaid remains secure.
“To put you at ease, traditional Medicaid is not going to be cut,” he stated. “The focus is on ensuring only those who qualify receive benefits, preventing fraud without reducing coverage.”
The congressman expressed admiration for TCCH’s dedication and high-quality care.
“I give you all credit for what you do every day and appreciate your commitment to the community,” Haridopolos said. “I’m really impressed with not only the numbers you handle, which is remarkable, but you do it in a first-class facility as well.”
TCCH continues to innovate, notably through a $1 million federal grant supporting healthcare services within the Indian River County jail. This program aids individuals transitioning back to community care after release.
“Congressman Haridopolos’ visit underscores the vital need for sustained investment in community health centers like TCCH, which serve one in six residents in Indian River County,” Miranda said. “We value his commitment to understanding our work and the challenges we face.”
TCCH’s eight health centers provide a team-based approach, offering medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, and vision services for patients from pediatrics to seniors.
The organization accepts private insurance and offers a sliding fee scale based on income and family size. For more information, visit tcchinc.org.
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