Current Conditions
For those with low income and living in public housing, lack of health care translates into a reduction in average life expectancy of 16-20 years when compared with middle and higher income residents living just 5 miles away.
In 2015, Aloha Health, conducted a patient record analysis of the health records of a subset of youth living in Richmond’s 7th District. Of the health records reviewed, 80% of these Richmond youth:
-Did not meet EPSDT/HEDIS guidelines,
-Are desirous of improving their culture of wellness but are challenged to do so.
-Came from families not utilizing a medical home though most have, or could obtain, health insurance coverage.
-Indicated that family members have unaddressed health needs such as behavior health and obesity.
-The health and health care gaps experienced in the Aloha Health analysis are repeated in communities across the nation.
In 2015, Aloha Health, conducted a patient record analysis of the health records of a subset of youth living in Richmond’s 7th District. Of the health records reviewed, 80% of these Richmond youth:
-Did not meet EPSDT/HEDIS guidelines,
-Are desirous of improving their culture of wellness but are challenged to do so.
-Came from families not utilizing a medical home though most have, or could obtain, health insurance coverage.
-Indicated that family members have unaddressed health needs such as behavior health and obesity.
-The health and health care gaps experienced in the Aloha Health analysis are repeated in communities across the nation.
Aloha Health Model
Many community health worker (CHW) models address those already in healthcare or receiving care in an emergency situation. As a consequence, these services only scratch the surface in addressing the underserved and under utilizers of healthcare. The following summarizes the Aloha Health approach:
The Aloha Health community health worker (CHW) and trusted community leader (TCL) model is a unique and innovative strategy able to penetrate residents' environments to address the healthcare issues of those in most in need, most underserved, and most under-utilizing of healthcare
The Aloha Health model utilizes many components of the University of Pennsylvania Penn Center for Community Health Workers and other best practice models. In addition, the Aloha Health model engages trusted community leaders (TCLs) who live, work, play, are trusted, and respected by neighborhood residents and groups. These TCLs are able to assist in directing residents to CHWs and other appropriate care. Therefore the Aloha Health CHW/TCL model intervenes well before a health crisis and improves coordinated care and compliance to achieve better outcomes.
The Aloha Health community health worker (CHW) and trusted community leader (TCL) model is a unique and innovative strategy able to penetrate residents' environments to address the healthcare issues of those in most in need, most underserved, and most under-utilizing of healthcare
The Aloha Health model utilizes many components of the University of Pennsylvania Penn Center for Community Health Workers and other best practice models. In addition, the Aloha Health model engages trusted community leaders (TCLs) who live, work, play, are trusted, and respected by neighborhood residents and groups. These TCLs are able to assist in directing residents to CHWs and other appropriate care. Therefore the Aloha Health CHW/TCL model intervenes well before a health crisis and improves coordinated care and compliance to achieve better outcomes.
Social Determinants of Health Impact on Community Health
The Center for Disease Control states that conditions in the places where people live, learn, work, and play affect a wide range of health risks and outcomes. These conditions are known as social determinants of health (SDOH). We know that poverty limits access to healthy foods and safe neighborhoods and that more education is a predictor of better health. Aloha Health is addressing SDOH in Richmond by improving individual and population health and also advancing health equity. To address SDOH Aloha Health is creating social and physical environments that promote good health for all.
Our Community Leaders and Supporters
In the Richmond community alone Aloha Health has over 50 church and community organization leaders committed to engaging residents in health and wellness programs that improve their live expectancy and quality of life. Aloha Health also has bi-partisan support from elected officials and public and private sector officials.
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