APLA Health Expands Long Beach Facility Amid Federal Funding Concerns

APLA Health has significantly expanded its Long Beach facility, tripling in size since 2016 to become the largest of its eight care centers in Los Angeles County. The expanded clinic now features 18 exam rooms, up from six, along with enhanced laboratory services, dental facilities, and specialized care including gender health and PrEP services. This expansion comes at a time when federally qualified health centers across the country are expressing concerns about potential government funding reductions.

The organization has a long history of providing specialized healthcare, beginning with dental services for HIV patients in the 1980s when many providers refused treatment. APLA Health's medical services expanded significantly during the Obama administration when the Affordable Care Act extended Medicaid coverage to millions of additional Americans. According to CEO Craig E. Thompson, this policy change opened healthcare access to previously underserved populations including low-income LGBTQ+ individuals and people living with HIV.

Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson characterized the facility as an essential resource amid declining government healthcare funding. The center provides comprehensive healthcare regardless of patients' identity or insurance status, serving as what Richardson described as a safe respite for LGBTQ+ residents and the broader community. The clinic operates five days weekly, offering expanded capacity through additional providers and increased patient availability.

The expansion represents a remarkable evolution for an organization that began with modest facilities, including what volunteer-turned-donor Brad Miyasato described as a dental trailer in West Hollywood 40 years ago. Clinic Director Norma Albarran emphasized the emotional impact of their work, noting that patients often find a sense of belonging at the facility. The center's growth demonstrates continued commitment to serving vulnerable populations despite the uncertain funding landscape.

As federally qualified health centers nationwide navigate potential budget constraints under the current administration, APLA Health's expansion in Long Beach stands as both an achievement and a statement about the ongoing need for accessible healthcare services. The organization continues to adapt to changing healthcare policies while maintaining its core mission of serving communities that have historically faced barriers to quality care.