PMC1 - Advancing State-Level Investments in Primary Care Funding to Strengthen Community Health Centers

Session Description: Primary care serves as the cornerstone of an effective and fair health care system. Yet, in the United States, it remains chronically underfunded—receiving only about 6% of total healthcare spending, compared to an average of 14% in peer nations. This underinvestment contributes to inefficiencies, disparities in access and outcomes, and overreliance on high-cost, acute care services.

To close this gap, many states are exploring and implementing innovative primary care funding strategies, including population-based payments, value-based care models, and legislative spending mandates. These models aim to reinforce primary care infrastructure and enhance health outcomes. Evidence demonstrates that increased investment in primary care reduces unnecessary utilization of emergency and specialty services, resulting in cost savings and improved patient outcomes.

The development and adoption of sustainable state-level primary care funding models can further the health center mission of providing high-quality, comprehensive care. These models support integrated care teams, enhance accountability, and enable expansion of services to better meet community needs.

This educational session will convene PCAs and health center leaders to learn from national and state experts about state-level primary care funding models. Participants will be introduced to a national scan of existing policies and strategies, offering a comprehensive view of how states are approaching primary care investment. They will gain a foundational understanding of primary care’s critical role in advancing health system performance and fairness. The session will also equip attendees with actionable strategies to engage state lawmakers and key decision-makers in establishing or expanding dedicated primary care funding.