FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — A new health center is now open and ready to treat people in west central Fresno.<\/p>\n
“We’ve been in operation here in West Fresno since November of 2025,” said Kelly Garzon, the Director of Communications for United Health Centers. “West Fresno lacks healthcare access, so being able to open a health center in this community that’s accessible to so many homes and neighborhoods around this area is prime.”<\/p>\n
United Health Centers held the grand opening for its new building on Friday.<\/p>\n
However, over the last few months, the West Shields location has already been serving a diverse patient population.<\/p>\n
The over 10,000 square-foot facility offers a variety of services ranging from medical and dental to women’s health and x-rays.<\/p>\n
“It’s important to have access to these underserved neighborhoods because a lot of people need to go to the doctor,” said Garzon. “Unfortunately, they don’t have access or they’re not educated.”<\/p>\n
The new health facility’s opening comes at a time when millions of people are facing increased health care costs.<\/p>\n
“We accept patients that do and don’t have insurance, and we have an in-house enrollment department,” said Garzon. “So if you were to show up without insurance, our enrollment department can help you and guide you through those steps to get insurance. We also have our sliding fee scale pay.”<\/p>\n
Federal data shows more than 22 million people signed up for an Affordable Care Act insurance plan by January of this year. That’s 1.4 million fewer people, compared to 2025, which saw over 24 million enrollees.<\/p>\n
Earlier this month, the House passed a bill that would extend ACA subsidies by three years. But Senate leaders still remain divided.<\/p>\n
Even during uncertain times, United Health Centers moves forward with a clear goal.<\/p>\n
“Our mission is to provide quality and accessible care regardless of their ability to pay,” said Garzon. “By placing ourselves in these areas and communities, we are providing education. We’re providing care, and we’re providing services under one roof.”<\/p>\n
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