Public policy is an integral part of assuring health care access. The Community HealthCare Association of the Dakota (CHAD) provides information to our members and their patients about the purpose and potential impact of state and federal health policy on access to health care and community health center (CHC) operations .

The health center program has received bi-partisan support from its inception over 45 years ago and continues to play a vital role in America's health care system. In 2001 President George W. Bush's CHC initiative set the goal to double the number of sites across the nation. Growth and expansion of medical services offered at health center sites has continued to evolve through the Affordable Care Act upheld by the Supreme Court in June 2012.

Periodic alerts and federal policy information is available by joining the National Association of Community Health Center's Grassroots Advocacy Center. To stay informed of recent and ongoing state policy activity, sign up to receive "State Watch" which is distributed weekly during state legislative session.