"The Weingart Foundation is exceptionally proud to provide the lead gift for this community health center," said Fred Ali, president and chief executive officer of the Weingart Foundation. "We would also like to acknowledge the other funders that joined this long-term effort. The Weingart Foundation is dedicated to improving the quality of life in Southern California and this health center is an exciting culmination of community efforts to address the important healthcare needs of individuals in Downtown Los Angeles.

The County of Los Angeles is providing professional staff from various departments to implement this integrated model of care. The Department of Mental Health will provide mental health screening, assessment, treatment and medication support. The Department of Public Health will provide radiology services and host TB medical clinics on site to provide TB testing, treatment and directly observed therapy, as well as substance abuse services through the DPH-Alcohol and Drug Programs Administration. The Department of Health Services will provide HIV testing and treatment, and referrals for mental health services and case management.

"The County of Los Angeles is proud to be a part of the unique partnership and opening of the Center for Community Health," said Kathy House, manager of the Service Integration Branch of the County's CEO's office. "The center provides a unique approach to healthcare integration in the county which we hope will serve as a model for replication."

SOURCE The Weingart Center Association