Mr. President. community and migrant health centers play a vital role in bringing affordable and accessible communitybased primary care to millions of Americans in underserved areas. Since its beginning in 1966. the Community Health Center Program has been the backbone of Federal efforts to bring quality health care to needy persons and areas throughout the country. In inner cities and isolated rural areas. these health centers have served millions of uninsured and underinsured people. including the elderly. women and children at risk. and those with other special needs. Nationwide. over 2.400 health centers provide basic services to over 9 million persons a year.