Community health centers and the elderly: a potential new alliance

Community health centers (CHCs) are experiencing the effects of federal policy changes that are promoting an autonomous existence for many agencies. These policy shifts also challenge the original structure and mission of CHCs to serve underserved and/or low-income clientele. CHCs now need not only a stable clientele, but also a reimburseable clientele. Both of these criteria can be met by the elderly population with Medicare coverage. The needs of the CHCs are balanced by the growing needs of the elderly who are using CHCs more, according to the authors' research in 32 communities across the country. The most dramatic increases in CHC clientele between 1983 and 1984 was in the 75 years and older categories. This article reviews the factors underlying CHCs strategic advantage in expanding services to the elderly, the evolution of federal policy toward CHCs, and their response to the current policy environment. The discussion is based on findings from studies conducted between 1982 and 1985.