Gov. Kathleen Sebelius has proclaimed Aug. 10 to 16 as Primary Care Safety Net Clinic Week. This recognizes the clinics in our state that literally provide a "safety net" for the most vulnerable Kansans -- those who are uninsured and underinsured.

In 2007, these clinics provided comprehensive primary care to more than 169,000 people, regardless of their ability to pay. The clinics play a vital role in our communities by helping their patients stay healthy and out of emergency rooms. In Hays, First Care Clinic performs this critical service.

About 300,000 Kansans are uninsured. Nationwide, 56 million people -- nearly one in five Americans -- are without a source of primary care. But even if all Americans suddenly had health insurance, millions still wouldn't be able to access primary care because of where they live. There simply aren't enough doctors and nurses in places that need them most. In Kansas, this includes both rural areas and the inner city.

On behalf of its 41 safety net clinic members, KAMU wishes to thank the state legislators, private foundations and many individuals who recognize this problem and are helping build our workforce as part of their overall support for the safety net.

This year, the Kansas Legislature voted to increase funding for safety net clinics, with some of those funds targeted to workforce development. Similarly, several Kansas foundations have continuously supported the clinics, including access to oral health services. Qualified dentists and hygienists are also needed throughout the state.

As more people look to these clinics for their health care, we are grateful for the commitment of these leaders to the medically underserved.

Cathy Harding, executive director, Kansas Association for the Medically Underserved