Dear Editor,

Every day, community health centers like Ohio Hills Health Centers serve on the front lines of health care for Ohioans. We care for over 9,000 patients each year, many of whom would otherwise go without access to affordable medical, dental, behavioral health, and pharmacy services. But without action from our state leaders, this care — and the health of our communities — is at risk.

We strongly support House Bill (HB) 276 and Senate Bill (SB) 198, which protects patient access to affordable medications through the federal 340B program.

Congress created the 340B program to assist safety-net providers, such as community health centers, in maximizing limited federal resources and reinvesting the savings into patient care. For us, these savings mean:

∫ Free or reduced-cost prescriptions for patients who cannot otherwise afford them.

∫ Expanded access to primary care, behavioral health, and dental care

∫ Community-based health initiatives like cancer screenings, diabetes management, and preventive care programs.

Without this legislation, many Ohioans risk losing access to affordable care and the safety net they rely on. We urge lawmakers to pass HB 276 and SB 198 so that community health centers can continue to deliver high-quality, affordable care in communities across our state.

Jeff Britton

CEO

Ohio Hills Health Centers