Frontera Healthcare Network announced it has achieved Gold status in the Advocacy Center of Excellence (ACE) Program.

This recognition is a testament to the organization’s dedication and prioritization of advocacy within their health center, according to a spokesman.

An Advocacy Center of Excellence (ACE) is a Community Health Center that creates a culture of advocacy to ensure that policymakers at all levels of government commit to investing in the affordable, equitable and innovative care that health centers provide.

ACE levels recognize consistent engagement and demonstrate an ongoing commitment to making advocacy an organizational priority, the spokesman stated.

ACEs actively partner with the National Association of Community Health Centers (NACHC) on federal policy issues, as well as the Texas Association of Community Health Centers (TACHC) on key local and state-level policy issues impacting health centers and their patients.

“Earning Gold ACE status is no small feat and requires hardworking staff and supportive leadership,” the ACE spokesman said. “Frontera has demonstrated a commitment to advocacy that serves as an example to other Community Health Centers striving for excellence in this area.”

Frontera has displayed its promise to advocating for its patients in many ways, such as hosting visits with state and federal representatives, testifying at state and federal hearings on proposed legislation and participating in civic engagement efforts.

Frontera’s leadership in institutionalizing advocacy not only benefits its health center but also strengthens the health center movement nationally, the spokesman said.

Advocating to politicians can help health centers better serve patients at the local level in several ways. By advocating for increased funding for health centers, these centers can receive the resources they need to provide more comprehensive and affordable health care services to patients at the local level.

Frontera is actively advocating for improved access to care for rural areas. The organization’s efforts are commendable and showcase its commitment to making a positive impact in the community, an ACE spokesman stated.