Houston Daily

The UH Health Family Care Center, an on-campus clinic at the University of Houston, has received a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Look-Alike designation from the Health Resources and Services Administration. This recognition marks a significant achievement for the center, which provides primary care and mental health services to the university and surrounding communities.

Neena Arora, assistant vice president and CEO of the Family Care Center, noted that becoming an FQHC Look-Alike required extensive preparation and focus on quality and compliance. "This designation not only validates the exceptional work we’re already doing, but it also opens new opportunities to expand our services, enhance access to care and better serve our community," Arora stated.

The FQHC Look-Alike status signifies that the Family Care Center meets full FQHC standards without receiving federal funding. This allows the center to offer services on a sliding fee scale and operate with a patient-governed board while adhering to HRSA Health Center Program requirements.

Dr. Jonathan McCullers, vice president of health affairs at UH and dean of the Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine, commented on the achievement: "Earning this designation is a powerful validation of the quality, commitment and compassion that define the Family Care Center."

Opened in November 2022, the Family Care Center forms part of UH’s value-based healthcare model. Staffed by physicians, psychologists, and medical students, it addresses various health needs including behavioral health, pediatrics, internal medicine, and obstetrics.

Dr. Diana Grair, chief medical officer at FCC, emphasized how this new status will impact areas with high rates of chronic disease in Houston. "Our approach builds trust, strengthens relationships and keeps our patients and their families coming back," Grair explained.