Community Wellness Center
Definition
One-stop facility providing primary healthcare (nurse practitioners), mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment, social services navigation, and community programs. Think of it as a neighborhood health hub – not a hospital, but a place where you can get care for the things that often lead to emergencies.
Dave Biggers’ Plan:
- 18 Community Wellness Centers across all Louisville districts
- Services: Primary care, mental health counseling, substance abuse treatment (MAT programs), social services navigation
- Affordable access: Sliding-scale fees based on income
- Insurance: Accept Medicaid, Medicare, and private insurance
- No one turned away for inability to pay
- ROI: $2-3 saved for every $1 spent through prevented ER visits and reduced hospitalizations
Why this matters: Louisville residents currently travel miles for basic care or flood emergency rooms with preventable issues. Wellness centers bring comprehensive health services to YOUR neighborhood, reducing wait times, improving outcomes, and saving taxpayer money.