Lake County Gazette

Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center has marked its 30th anniversary as a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), commemorating three decades of healthcare service to county residents.

Since receiving the FQHC Look-Alike designation in 1995 and becoming a fully funded Section 330(e) Community Health Center in 1998, the Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center have prioritized providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to all residents, regardless of their ability to pay. Initially starting as a single location, it has expanded into nine health centers across the county. These centers offer 13 programs including medical, dental, prenatal, gynecology, family planning, Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), the Illinois Breast and Cervical Cancer Program, sexually transmitted infection (STI) services, behavioral health, therapy, laboratory services, insurance navigation, and community health worker support. This expansion reflects a strong commitment to accessible and comprehensive care.

In 2024, according to Lake County's press release, the department served 32,975 unique patients and conducted over 113,000 visits. It remains a critical resource for vulnerable and underserved populations. Supported by a team of more than 900 professionals, the Health Department and Community Health Center continue to lead as Lake County’s largest human service provider. They deliver mission-driven programs that address both individual and community health needs while maintaining high standards of care.

"This milestone is not only a celebration of our history but a recommitment to the people we serve," said Chris Hoff, executive director of the Lake County Health Department and Community Health Center. "We are proud of our legacy and look forward to the future as we continue to innovate, grow, and break down barriers to care."

The department outlines its core functions and services by focusing on assessing community health needs and developing policies to improve public health. It ensures the delivery of essential health services by monitoring health trends, investigating risks, educating the public, building community partnerships, enforcing regulations for health and safety compliance while connecting residents with necessary care. Additionally, it supports workforce training initiatives evaluates program effectiveness and engages in research aimed at improving health outcomes.