The MPCA is a non-profit corporation founded in November 1984 as an alliance of community health centers. The Association functions as an advocacy voice for the medically underserved and explores and implements activities aimed at providing and promoting high quality, accessible, and personalized healthcare services to urban and rural populations - regardless of ability to pay - in the state of Missouri.  MPCA's mission is to be Missouri's leader in shaping policies and programs that improve access to high-quality, community-based, and affordable primary health services.

Another objective of the MPCA is to guarantee the community's voice in local healthcare delivery. As such, the Association actively involves consumers and providers of primary care services with governmental agencies that plan for delivery of primary healthcare.