About VCHA
The vision of the Virginia Community Healthcare Association is for the Commonwealth of Virginia to have the healthiest population in America.
Our mission
To advocate on behalf of, educate and elevate our member health centers, enhancing their ability to provide affordable, accessible, quality healthcare to the communities they serve, regardless of their ability to pay.
Who we are
Established in 1980, VCHA is a non-profit membership organization and the primary care association for Virginia’s community health centers and look-alike health centers. Membership is open to every Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) and FQHC look-alike operating delivery sites in Virginia; since September 2026 VCHA represents 32 organizations.
VCHA works with health centers, community leaders and partners to expand access to affordable, high-quality care where it is needed most. It is part of Virginia’s health safety net, alongside nonprofit rural health clinics, community-based primary care providers and health departments.
What is a community health center?
Community health centers, also known as Federally Qualified Health Centers, are non-profit, community-based, patient-centered organizations. They deliver comprehensive primary and preventive care, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy and substance use disorder services to everyone in their communities, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. They accept Medicaid, Medicare and private insurance, and serve uninsured patients on a sliding fee scale.
What we do
Training
Continuing education for health professionals, Board of Directors responsibilities, revenue maximization and other topics members ask for.
Technical assistance and consulting
Ongoing support for established centers and for communities organizing a new one, from practice development to marketing to managed care.
Provider recruitment
Help for members in finding and keeping health care providers, including temporary physician (locum tenens) coverage.
Cooperative purchasing
Group buying programs that save members money and staff time, from liability insurance to medical and office supplies and laboratory services. Group purchasing
Advocacy and policy
VCHA monitors federal, state and local policy and works with elected officials, member organizations, their patients and the media so health centers have the resources they need. Take action