Funding issues hit La Pine Community Health Center’s Wellness Center, delay opening to early fall; support sought
La PINE, Ore. (KTVZ) —The much-anticipated Wellness Center, an expansion of La Pine Community Health Center’s campus aimed at enhancing vital health services for the community, is experiencing delays. Initially expected to open early this year, officials said Thursday "the completion timeline has now shifted to early fall due to various financial and logistical hurdles."
The Wellness Center will bring expanded dental services, diagnostic imaging and increased mental and behavioral health support to the community.
"However, rising costs, supply chain disruptions and delays in securing financial contributions have significantly slowed progress," read the announcement, which continues in full below:
It is important to clarify that the funding for this capital project is entirely separate from LCHC’s operational budget. The capital campaign to build the Wellness Center is funded through dedicated financing and fundraising efforts, distinct from the funds used for day-to-day operations and patient care.
Like many community health centers across the nation, LCHC faced uncertainty earlier this year regarding federal operational funding. In response, proactive workforce reductions were made to protect long-term patient services.
Fortunately, Congress has since approved funding for community health centers through September 30, 2025, allowing LCHC to recall some previously affected employees and begin rebuilding its team.
Despite securing financing to cover a portion of the Wellness Center project last year, LCHC has yet to be able to draw from those funds. Though there has been tremendous community enthusiasm, additional financial support is necessary to bring this vital project to completion.
"We remain committed to seeing the Wellness Center become reality, but we need additional support to move forward," said Erin Trapp, CEO. "This facility will serve as a crucial resource for La Pine. Delaying this project is the last thing we want to happen. We need the community's support and understanding now more than ever."
Skanska, LCHC’s general contractor, has been a valued partner throughout the Wellness Center project.
“While we are disappointed that the La Pine Community Health Wellness Center project is delayed due to funding challenges, we look forward to being able to collaborate with La Pine Community Health to deliver a healthcare facility that meets the needs of the community,” said Todd Predmore, Vice President – Account Manager at Skanska.
Community members and organizations interested in supporting the project are encouraged to reach out to Courtney Ignazzitto, Marketing & Communications Coordinator, at (541) 536-3435 or visit www.lapinehealth.org/wellnesscenter to learn more about how to contribute.
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About La Pine Community Health Center
La Pine Community Health Center (LCHC) is a nonprofit, Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), Patient-Centered Primary Care Home that provides 360-degree care to the communities of South Deschutes, North Klamath and West Lake Counties. LCHC provides care to the commercially insured, uninsured and underinsured. Some of the services that are provided by the health center are primary medical care for all ages, point of care nursing, behavioral health, health education and outreach resources such as transportation to appointments, assistance with prescriptions and Oregon Health Plan enrollment. Also offered at LCHC is access to specialty care, such as orthopedics, podiatry and dermatology.
