Supporting Health for All: GBGM Grant Strengthens Access to Care in Cochise County

The Chiricahua Health Foundation recently received a grant from the General Board of Global Ministries, a general agency of the United Methodist Church. The GBGM Grant Strengthens Access at a critical moment and will help ensure that people across Cochise County can continue to access healthcare, regardless of their ability to pay.

The grant strengthens our commitment to Health for All by supporting care for uninsured patients and sustaining essential programs that serve some of the region’s most vulnerable families.

Rising Uninsured Rates Highlight the Need for Community Healthcare

Over the past five years, Chiricahua Community Health Centers has seen a dramatic increase in patients seeking care without health insurance. Between 2019 and 2024, the number of uninsured patients grew by 208 percent, while the number of uninsured children increased by 219 percent.

In 2024 alone, Chiricahua provided care to 35,829 individuals, including more than 8,500 patients without insurance coverage. While 2025 data is still being finalized, early indicators suggest these trends will continue.

These numbers reflect a growing need for affordable, accessible healthcare in rural communities throughout Cochise County.

How the GBGM Grant Supports Uninsured Patients

This grant allows Chiricahua to bridge critical funding gaps created by rising uninsured rates and shifting healthcare coverage. The funding directly supports:

• Medical care for uninsured adults and children

• Programs at risk due to funding reductions

• Families who have lost coverage or can no longer afford insurance premiums

For many patients, this support means maintaining a consistent medical home close to where they live.

Support Health for All

Grants like this help strengthen our work, but they are only part of the picture. Community support plays a vital role in ensuring that everyone, regardless of insurance status or income, has access to quality healthcare.

If you would like to support this mission, you can learn more or make a donation through the Chiricahua Health Foundation. Your support helps sustain care for uninsured patients and expand access to essential health services across Cochise County.

Visit the Chiricahua Health Foundation to donate or learn more

Looking Ahead: Strengthening Healthcare Across Cochise County

Chiricahua continues to provide comprehensive primary care throughout Cochise County, with clinics and services positioned to meet people where they are. Our workforce reflects the communities we serve, helping build trust and deliver culturally responsive care.

This partnership with the General Board of Global Ministries represents more than financial support. It reflects a shared belief that healthcare is a fundamental need, not a privilege.

With continued community partnerships and grant support, Chiricahua remains committed to keeping its promise: everyone is welcome here.