our values and history

values

CHC believes that all consumers should have a voice in health care reform. We envision a health care system with a consumer-centered approach to programs and services regardless of an individual’s race, ethnicity, mental or physical health, health needs, functional needs, gender, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status.

history

The image of the Consumer Health Coalition grew from the September 1995 conference “Building a Coalition: Giving Consumers a Voice in Shaping Health Services.” As a body, the participants recognized the need for an organization that would voice the needs of the consumer. A Coalition Organizing Committee who represented diverse backgrounds relating to health care, research, and advocacy was charged with coordinating the first design steps.

The Organizing Committee worked through the early summer of 1995. The members focused on the logistics of establishing the new organization. The work of the Committee resulted in the development of mission and vision statements and a timeline for the formation of the Coalition.

During a public meeting on October 1, 1996, the Consumer Health Coalition was launched. More than 86 individuals attended this event. Initial funding for CHC was provided by the Jewish Healthcare Foundation and The Pittsburgh Foundation, and Families USA provided insight on strategy development.