LOUISVILLE, Ky February 26, 2026 — Family Health Centers (FHC) is pleased to announce that its Phoenix Healthcare for the Homeless Medical Respite Program has been certified by the National Institute for Medical Respite Care (NIMRC), a special program of the National Health Care for the Homeless Council. This certification recognizes that the Family Health Centers Phoenix Medical Respite Program has completed a rigorous review process demonstrating alignment with nationally recognized principles, standards, and expectations for medical respite care. The Phoenix Medical Respite Program is the only program in the state of Kentucky to have achieved this certification from the National Institute for Medical Respite Care.
The FHC-Phoenix Medical Respite Program provides acute medical care for individuals experiencing homelessness being released from the hospital, but who are too ill or injured to recover on the streets or in shelters. In addition to medical care, clients receive case management, supportive services and housing assistance whenever possible. “Achieving this certification reflects our long-standing commitment to delivering high-quality, compassionate care for people experiencing homelessness,” said Dr. Andy Patterson, Director of Homeless Services at the Family Health Centers. “Medical respite is a critical bridge between hospital care and long-term stability, and this recognition affirms the strength and integrity of our program.”
Currently located in Hotel Louisville operated by Wayside Christian Mission in downtown Louisville, the FHC-Phoenix Medical Respite Program will be moved to a new building as part of Louisville’s Community Cares Campus plans. “This program saves lives,” said Dr. Bart Irwin, CEO of the Family Health Centers. “It not only benefits the people who are using the respite program, but it’s also an advantage to the community as well. Hospitals can discharge persons who would otherwise be languishing in hospital beds because they have nowhere to go.”
To learn more about medical respite care certification, visit the National Institute for Medical Respite Care at nhchc.org/medical-respite/nimrc/certification.
About Family Health Centers – Phoenix
Family Health Centers – Phoenix is a federally funded Health Care for the Homeless Project providing primary care, behavioral health services, case management, pharmacy, and peer supportive housing services to individuals experiencing homelessness in Louisville. FHC-Phoenix serves more than 4,000 homeless individuals annually. Learn more about the Family Health Centers at www.fhclouisville.org.