The impact of COVID-19 on communities served by health centers has been profound, and this is acutely the case for homeless populations, residents of public housing, and migrant and seasonal farmworkers. These “special populations” – as defined in the 330 Statute – are served specifically, and in some cases solely, by community health centers. Each of these populations faces unique challenges in accessing testing, treatment, vaccines, and care during COVID-19.
This session will showcase National Training and Technical Assistance Partners (NTTAPS) focused on homeless populations, farmworkers, and residents of public housing. Taking the form of a moderated panel, NTTAPs will highlight how health centers serving special populations approached COVID-testing, continue to provide access to care (whether through telehealth or in-person visits), and are rolling out vaccinations. NTTAPs will also highlight the unique, strategic decisions special population health centers have to make and consider – whether financial, operational, or clinical – when responding to COVID-19.