The History of Community Health Centers in Canada Name: Number: Introduction Community Health Centers (CHCs) are known to be a distinctive primary care delivery models that are governed by community boards. They deliver programs and services within a certain population health framework and have extensive community involvement, including volunteerism. The Community Health Centre concept represents an important next step in the development of the Canadian health system. CHCs shift focus from individuals seeking medical attention when sick to preventative care and keeping Canadians healthy, ultimately removing other barriers to good health (Shah, & Moloughney, 2010). Community Health Centers provide primary care services and health promotion programs with an emphasis on priority populations which require improved access to care and/or have a higher disease burden requiring additional resources. Problems of access may be the result of socioeconomic status, geographic isolation, cultural or language barriers. Illness burden may be related to age, socio-economic status, or environment factors. Community health centers have the following qualities in Canada; use a population needs-based and determinants of health approach to plan, develop and provide primary health care services, including treatment and health promotion, Encourage individuals, families and communities within a specific population, defined by either geographic boundaries or communities of affiliation ...