Community Health and Environmental Preparedness Statement
From a Rural Federally Qualified Health Center in a High-Risk Wildfire Area

 

As a rural Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), our top priority is the health and well-being of our patients and community. In recent years, we have seen an increase in extreme weather events, including wildfires and smoke conditions, that directly affect the health and safety of the people we serve.

Wildfires and smoke exposure pose serious health risks—particularly for individuals with asthma, heart and lung conditions, young children, older adults, and those with limited access to care. As part of our commitment to providing high-quality care and being a trusted resource in times of need, we are strengthening our efforts to prepare and respond to environmental health challenges.

We are committed to:

• Protecting our patients by providing education and resources on wildfire smoke exposure, air quality alerts, and emergency preparedness.

• Reducing our environmental footprint by pursuing energy-efficient practices and sustainable operations within our limited rural resources.

• Helping patients manage chronic conditions that can be worsened by wildfire smoke and environmental stress.

• Ensuring continuity of care during emergencies by developing preparedness and communication plans.

• Working with local partners to coordinate emergency response and community outreach efforts.

• Creating a safer, healthier clinic environment through practical steps to improve indoor air quality and ensure reliable access to care during wildfire events.

As a health center rooted in the community, we remain dedicated to protecting the health of our patients in the face of changing environmental risks.