Peter Chang, MD, MPH, CPE, FAAFP, President/CEO of Grace Health, has been honored with the 2025 Advocate of the Year Award by the Michigan Primary Care Association (MPCA) and Michigan Community Health Network (MCHN). The award was presented at the recent MPCA Annual Conference and recognizes individuals who have made outstanding efforts in advocating for Michigan health centers and the patients they serve.
The Advocate of the Year Award is given annually to an individual who works tirelessly to elevate the visibility and impact of community health centers. Dr. Chang was recognized for his dedicated efforts, including multiple trips to Washington D.C. to meet with members of Congress, as well as ongoing communication efforts to raise awareness about the essential role community health centers play in public health.
“Dr. Chang cares deeply about our patients and community,” said Dean Newsome, Grace Health Board Chair. “He believes everyone deserves patient-centered healthcare delivered with excellence in quality, service, and access — and he is truly committed to making a difference in our community every day.”
In 2024 alone, community health centers nationwide served nearly 34 million patients, providing vital care to medically underserved communities. These centers, also known as Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), offer high-quality, comprehensive primary care services regardless of a patient’s income or insurance status. Remarkably, they serve more than 10% of the U.S. population while accounting for just 1% of total health care spending.
Grace Health, an FQHC located in Battle Creek, has served Calhoun County since 1986. In 2024, the organization provided more than 124,300 visits to over 29,400 patients. Services offered include Family Practice, Internal Medicine, OB/GYN, Pediatrics, Dental, Behavioral Health, Optometry/Vision Care, Podiatry, Physical Therapy, and a full-service on-site pharmacy.
Dr. Peter Chang, Grace Health President/CEO