Health care for every Filipino: ‘Why I choose the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center’
By Rachelle Peraz Ocampo, EdM
As a Filipino American living in New York City, it can feel overwhelming to find a health care provider who understands my culture, meets my needs, and is affordable.
When I first started searching, I realized that I need more than just a convenient location or good reviews—I wanted a place where I felt respected and supported. That’s exactly what I found at the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center (CBWCHC), and here’s why it’s an ideal fit for Filipinos like you in New York City.
Culturally responsive care
One of the most important factors for me is having a doctor and care team that understands my cultural background. When I visit CBWCHC, I know I’m in good hands because the providers are culturally responsive, particularly for the Asian American community. They don’t just treat the symptoms; they respect my cultural values and take the time to understand how I approach health and wellness.
Affordability and payment options
Like many in our community, I’ve often worried about the cost of health care. With a family history of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, it’s essential to have access to affordable care. That’s one of the reasons I’m so grateful for CBWCHC. They provide services regardless of your ability to pay, and they offer a sliding fee discount, which means your costs are based on your household income and family size. Whether or not you have insurance, you can get the high-quality care you need without financial stress.
No concerns about immigration history
Immigration history can also be a sensitive issue. Some Filipinos in NYC avoid seeking medical care out of fear that their status might be questioned. At CBWCHC, immigration history is never an obstacle to receiving care. Knowing this makes the Health Center a safe space where we can get the medical attention we need without the worry.
Preventive care and managing chronic illness
Filipinos, including my own family members, often seek medical care only when they’re already sick. I used to do the same, but I’ve since realized the importance of preventive care, especially for chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure. CBWCHC emphasizes preventive care and offers screenings, check-ups, and education to help manage these conditions. They’ve helped me stay on top of my health and encouraged my family to do the same.
Why choose CBWCHC?
For me, choosing CBWCHC means choosing health care that understands and respects my culture and my family’s needs. They provide affordable, culturally responsive, and language-accessible care, ensuring that every patient, regardless of immigration history or financial situation, can get the help they need. If you’re a Filipino living in NYC, CBWCHC is an excellent choice for your health care needs. Whether it’s for Internal Medicine, OB/GYN, Pediatrics, Dental, Mental Health, Primary Eye Care, Social Work, or Health Education, CBWCHC has been there for me and my family, and I’m confident they can help you, too.
To book a same day appointment at any of the six convenient locations in Lower Manhattan or Flushing, Queens, visit: bit.ly/FilipinoHealthAd. If you have questions about their services, feel free to send a message at https://www.cbwchc.org/contact. CBWCHC is also hiring, so check out https://www.cbwchc.org/careers to join this stellar team.
About the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center
For more than 50 years, the Charles B. Wang Community Health Center has been a leading health care provider dedicated to delivering high-quality, affordable health care to underserved communities in Manhattan and Queens—with a focus on Asian Americans. Open seven days a week, CBWCHC accepts most major health insurance plans and offers comprehensive primary care services to children and adults including Internal Medicine, Pediatrics, OB/GYN, Dental Care, Primary Eye Care, and Mental Health, across six locations in Manhattan and Queens. CBWCHC’s legacy of excellence is nationally recognized with its commitment to ensure equitable access to health care for all, regardless of ability to pay, language spoken, or immigration history. For more information, visit http://www.cbwchc.org.
