Community Health Northwest Florida received an $8.7 million five-year grant to increase medical access in Century. The organization plans to distribute $3.99 million of these funds within the first year to stabilize and expand local care.
The initiative focuses on two specific sites. The existing clinic on Industrial Boulevard will see expanded capacity for both adult primary care and pediatric services. Furthermore, the organization will reopen the former Century Pediatrics facility on Church Street to accommodate new specialized departments.
Patients in this region will soon have local access to women’s health services, behavioral health support, and psychiatry. The project also introduces dedicated treatment options for individuals managing opioid use disorder. By increasing the availability of routine care, the organization aims to reduce the necessity for emergency room visits among rural residents.
Chandra Smiley, CEO of Community Health Northwest Florida, noted the importance of bringing medical providers directly into rural communities. This move aligns with the goals set by the Rural Health Transformation Program, which is funded through the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration and the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
This funding represents a long-term commitment to the Century region. Since opening the Industrial Boulevard clinic in 2019, the organization has adapted its footprint to meet changing local demands, including the consolidation of pediatric services in 2025. This expansion marks a return to a multi-site model to better serve patients.