Gov. Janet Mills has proclaimed Aug. 2-8, 2026, Maine Community Health Center Week, recognizing the vital role Maine’s community health centers play in strengthening the health of our communities.

As the state’s largest primary care network, these centers provide affordable, high-quality, comprehensive care to more than 210,000 Maine people each year, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay.

Community health centers are more than clinics. They care for the whole person by addressing not only medical needs, but also the social and economic factors that influence health. This patient-centered approach leads to better outcomes, healthier communities and lower healthcare costs.

According to the National Association of Community Health Centers, health centers save the U.S. healthcare system billions of dollars annually by preventing illness and reducing unnecessary hospital visits, while also serving as important economic drivers in communities across the state.

What makes Maine’s community health centers unique is the relationships they build with patients. Their teams take the time to understand each person’s needs, goals and circumstances, delivering care that is personal, trusted and rooted in the communities they serve.

During Maine Community Health Center Week, I encourage everyone to learn more about their local community health center and the difference it makes every day. Visit mepca.org to learn more.

Bryan Wyatt
Falmouth