Congressman Cardoza Announces Grant to Build New Medical Facility in Hilmar

Press Release

Congressman Dennis Cardoza (D-Merced) announced today that Livingston Medical Group (LMG) has received a $316,562 federal grant from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to open a new medical facility in Hilmar, CA. Last fall, Congressman Cardoza wrote a letter to HRSA supporting federal funding for this new medical facility, noting the critical need for more access to quality health care services in the Central Valley.

"This grant award is great news for residents of Merced County," said Congressman Cardoza. "Much of the Central Valley has a history of being medically underserved, and this new health center will boost access to care for thousands of people in our community. I am proud to have played a role in securing federal support for this critical investment in our Valley's health and well-being."

The new medical center will provide care for 4,500 new patients and make available thousands of additional medical visits. It will offer primary health care including family practice, pediatrics, perinatal care, gynecology, behavioral health, nutrition and health education, chronic disease prevention, family planning, and many other services.

John Alexander, CEO of LMG said, "With respect to HRSA's New Access Point Grant Funding, Livingston Medical Group is extremely excited about the opportunity to provide greater access to primary care for those that need it. We are particularly appreciative of Congressman Cardoza for his support and recognition of community/migrant health centers and the vital role they play today and will continue to play in the future of health care. We look forward to forging new partnerships and creating a presence in the community of Hilmar and surrounding rural areas."

Merced County has been designated a medically underserved area by the Department of Health and Human Services. In May of this year, Congressman Cardoza offered an amendment highlighting the importance of federal funding to improve health care in medically underserved areas. In a speech on the floor of the House of Representatives, Rep. Cardoza noted, "In California's San Joaquin Valley, there are less than 87 primary care physicians for every 100,000 patients. With an existing shortage well established and an aging population, our country desperately needs investments in the health care workforce, not rescissions."

Livingston Medical Group was one of California's first non-profit community health centers. Founded in 1970, LMG continues to provide health care services to residents of Livingston and the surrounding areas. The center provides a critical health care safety net for low-income individuals and medically underserved communities.

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