Building Bridges Between Health Delivery Systems and the Community by Addressing Engagement and Access Barriers

Authors

  • Moira Gassenmeyer The Alliance for Health Equity
  • Lissette Vilarchao MS, NonProfit Leadership, The University of Pennsylvania
  • Sarah Ragsdale

Keywords:

health delivery systems, community, access barriers

Abstract

In response to the Brandywine Hospital closure, The Alliance for Health Equity partnered with the Chester County Health Department to assess the needs of 600 Greater Coatesville residents. Following research of innovative models and having secured ARPA funding, The Alliance established the Equity Health Center, an integrated healthcare ecosystem that systematically addresses significant health access and engagement challenges. The core services encompass public transportation improvements, prevention of chronic diseases, youth mental health support, comprehensive healthcare for the uninsured, and digital referral integration and navigational support. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation, conducted in partnership with West Chester University, ensure effectiveness. The Equity Health Center utilizes an intentional engagement strategy to enhance service utilization, recognizing the importance of community trust and inclusivity in healthcare delivery. This initiative is a promising model for addressing healthcare access and engagement barriers in underserved communities, emphasizing collaboration and community-centered decision-making to create a more equitable and sustainable healthcare system.

Downloads

Published

2023-10-17

How to Cite

Gassenmeyer, M., Vilarchao, L., & Ragsdale, S. (2023). Building Bridges Between Health Delivery Systems and the Community by Addressing Engagement and Access Barriers. Social Innovations Journal, 21. Retrieved from https://socialinnovationsjournal.com/index.php/sij/article/view/6799