FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – April 3, 2023
For More Information, Contact:
Communications Director Taya Jarman, APR
202-747-3541 [email protected]
Washington, DC — As leaders across the country recognize the importance of public health programs during National Public Health Week (NPHW) on April 3-9, the Institute for Public Health Innovation (IPHI) is using the observance to highlight the critical work of community health workers (CHWs) to advance health outcomes in the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. IPHI – a nonprofit that develops multi-sector partnerships and innovative solutions to improve the public’s health and well-being partners with CHWs to ensure equitable health outcomes in the region.
CHWs are frontline public health workers who are trusted members of their communities. Through shared experiences of race, ethnicity, socio-economic status, health conditions, or other attributes, CHWs work to connect individuals in need of support to healthcare resources. “This week is a great time to recognize our great partners and critical public health ambassadors,” said Michael E. Rhein, IPHI President and CEO. “Community health workers are improving health outcomes and reducing health inequities by working with our communities and helping members one-on-one take charge of their health and navigate resources to help them thrive.”
Studies show that CHWs help reduce barriers to healthcare, improve health knowledge and chronic disease management, and reduce overall medical costs. IPHI estimates there are approximately 300 certified CHWs in the region, and many working towards certification. The CHWs work at healthcare institutions, community housing, and nonprofits that help connect community members with local resources.
IPHI maintains various CHW programs focused on providing training, continuing education opportunities, financial support, and mentorships.
- Its Community Health Worker Academy is a training institute dedicated to expanding the public health workforce in the District of Columbia, South Maryland, and Northern Virginia.
- IPHI worked with community partners to create the Community Health Worker Registry, an online hub to connect Virginia’s CHW workforce and share educational and networking opportunities.
- IPHI also manages a $4.3 million grant from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to expand the roles and capacity of CHWs in Virginia and support COVID-19 response and recovery. The CHWs for a Healthy VA program is exploring innovative financing strategies to help build and sustain the CHW workforce long-term.
Rhein added, “These programs are critical in ensuring community members have access and resources. This is a necessary step to achieving equitable health opportunities for all.”
For more information on IPHI’s latest focus areas, services, and initiatives, visit www.institutephi.org.
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About Institute for Public Health Innovation (IPHI)
IPHI develops multi-sector partnerships and innovative solutions to improve the public’s health and well-being across the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. IPHI’s work strengthens health systems and policy, enhances conditions that promote health, and builds community capacity to ensure equitable health opportunities. Nationally, IPHI is one of over 40 public health institutes and a member of the National Network of Public Health Institutes. For more information about IPHI, visit: www.institutephi.org and follow IPHI on LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram | @InstitutePHI.