Community Health Center rated among best in nation
Erie County Health Department at top of class for services delivered
SANDUSKY — The best of the best. More and more, that’s how the Erie County Health Department is viewed for its commitment to public health services in Erie County.
Best in the state; best in the nation.
The county health department’s Community Health Center was recently recognized with five national quality awards from the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), recognizing its outstanding performance in patient care, preventive services and health information technology.
HRSA is an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services focused on delivering services to vulnerable populations.
This marks the second consecutive year that the department’s Community Health Center has achieved the National Quality Leader (NQL) GOLD status, placing it among the top 10% of all federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) nationwide. The local center is one of only five FQHCs in Ohio and 136 nationwide to receive this elite designation.
The center also earned recognition for preventive health, high-value care, diabetes management, and health IT, reflecting its commitment to efficient, patient-centered, and data-driven care. Judging is based on national benchmarks derived from the Uniform Data System, which tracks access, outcomes, and technology use among health centers.
“Receiving these awards is a validation of our patient-first philosophy and our team’s dedication to high-quality, accessible care,” said Joe Palmucci, CEO of ECCHC. “Our focus on preventive health and chronic disease management directly impacts the well-being of our community.”
Total team
The Erie County Community Health Center has also again been recognized as a Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) by the National Committee for Quality Assurance, a team-based care model that uses communication and technology to improve outcomes while lowering costs.
Health Commissioner Peter Schade said the accolades reflect the center’s ongoing commitment to excellence and leadership in community health both locally and nationally.
ECCHC provides comprehensive services across medical, dental, mental/behavioral health, and addiction care. The center operates alongside other county programs, including Erie County Detox, Kaptur Rogowski House, and Compass Point.
For information visit www.ErieCoHealthOhio.com.
The health department’s mission is to promote and improve the health and safety of the communities and environment within Erie County while preventing disease through essential public health services. Its vision is a thriving community where everyone has access to health services, resources and support.
🏥 Erie County Community Health Center Locations
📍 Main Office: 420 Superior Street, Sandusky
🏢 Erie County Job & Family Services: 221 West Parish Street, Sandusky
🎓 Sandusky Career Center: 4501 Venice Blvd, Sandusky
👶 ECCHC / Huron County WIC Office: 34 Executive Drive, Norwalk
🩺 Inside Firelands Counseling & Recovery: 333 Buckeye Blvd, Port Clinton
🏫 Vermilion School-Based Health Center (Vermilion High School): 1250 Sanford Street, Vermilion
📚 EHOVE School-Based Health Center: 316 West Mason Road, Milan
🏝 Village of Kelleys Island Health Center: 117 Addison Street, Kelleys Island