Health Center News

For the first time, Eau Claire Cooperative Health Center (dba Cooperative Health) was recently acknowledged as a national leader in treating heart disease among Federal Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) awarded Cooperative Health the 2025 Heart Health Badge, a national distinction given to health centers that excel in clinical quality standards for treating cardiovascular disease.   

With heart disease being the leading cause of death in South Carolina, this award showcases that Cooperative Health is at the forefront of addressing this crisis in the Midlands region. In response, Cooperative Health ensures at least 70 percent of its at-risk patients manage their blood pressure, receive statin therapy, and access tobacco cessation support.  

"Cooperative Health's goal is to reduce the number of people who experience premature cardiovascular death and disability, which affects people at the prime of their adult life. Receipt of this badge is a testament that Cooperative Health is making significant gains for our patients and South Carolina," said Chief Medical Officer Eric Schlueter, MD. 

Through patient-centered initiatives including routine screenings, care coordination, education programs, and strong partnerships, Cooperative Health improved heart health outcomes for thousands of patients, particularly those who are underserved and at greater risk for chronic conditions.