MPCA News

Montana Primary Care Association Hosts 2003 Legislative Reception

Over fifty Montana legislators became better acquainted with Montana’s Community Health Center (CHC) leaders at a reception sponsored by Montana Primary Care Association (MPCA) on February 12 in Helena. CHC Executive Directors, Board Members, and Clinicians from around the state attended to meet legislators and highlight CHC and health issues in their regions.

Also attending the event was MPCA Legislative Policy Analyst Keith Colbo, who provided an update on legislative health issues to CHC attendees prior to the reception. According to Cindy Stergar, Executive Director of Butte Community Health Center, “Keith’s update was informative, and the reception afterward gave all of the Directors a chance to visit with their legislators.”

Keith Colbo, MPCA Legislative Policy Analyst (second from the right), and Alan Strange, MPCA Director (third from the right), talk to Montana Community Health Center representatives at the 2003 MPCA Legislative Reception in Helena.

The reception also gave board members from around the state a chance to meet and share ideas. Several commented that the reception was a good opportunity to familiarize with the other Montana CHC’s, as well as a chance to meet and talk with Montana lawmakers.

“The event was very positive for everyone,” says MPCA Executive Director Dr. Alan Strange. “The legislators made positive comments about the existing CHC’s in their areas, and many expressed interest in starting new CHC’s where their communities do not have one.”

Montana Primary Care Association 1805 Euclid Avenue Helena, MT 59601 Phone: (406) 442-2750 Fax: (406) 449-2460