INDIANAPOLIS — Indiana Governor Mike Braun was recognized on Oct. 20 with the inaugural Governor Mike Braun Community Health Center Champion Award, presented by the Indiana Primary Health Care Association (IPHCA). The honor celebrates Braun’s long‑standing advocacy for community health centers, from his time in the U.S. Senate to his current leadership as governor.
Local impact of the award
Community health centers serve nearly 900,000 Hoosiers, delivering medical care regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Braun said, “Affordability will always be my top priority, and I’m proud of all we have accomplished so far to make life more affordable for Hoosiers.” The award underscores the administration’s focus on primary care, affordability, and access in rural and underserved areas.
Policy actions praised by IPHCA
IPHCA highlighted a key decision by Braun’s administration this year to exempt federally qualified health centers from proposed changes to Medicaid and the federal 340B drug‑pricing program. By preserving those resources, the state helped health centers continue to provide low‑cost medications, behavioral health services, care coordination, and clinical staffing for Medicaid patients and the uninsured.
Ben Harvey, IPHCA’s chief executive officer, said, “Governor Braun’s support for Community Health Centers has carried from Washington to the Statehouse.” He added that Braun’s willingness to work with health‑center leaders demonstrates the value of collaboration when challenges arise.
Why the award matters for Indiana families
Reliable funding and sustainable Medicaid reimbursement are essential for keeping health‑care doors open in rural communities where residents often face long travel distances and limited provider options. The award signals that the Braun administration is committed to protecting those lifelines.
“I’m grateful for the recognition and for the work community health centers do to provide affordable, quality care,” Braun said in a statement posted to his official Twitter account.
Looking ahead
IPHCA said it will continue partnering with the governor’s office to strengthen health‑care access and sustain services for Hoosiers. The association plans to monitor Medicaid reimbursement levels and advocate for policies that keep community health centers financially viable.
For more information about the Indiana Primary Health Care Association, visit indianapca.org.
Original reporting: WOWO News/Talk (Fort Wayne) — read the source article.
