The Transformative Benefits of Community Action Healthcare Programs

Access to quality healthcare is a fundamental right that empowers individuals and promotes overall well-being. Community Action Agencies understand the importance of healthcare in creating healthier, more resilient communities. In offering innovative programs and services, as well as maximizing classic services, Community Action Agencies are reinventing what accessible healthcare looks like in safety net programs.

Ensuring Access to Essential Healthcare

Community Action programs are designed to address the healthcare needs of individuals and families facing barriers to access. Community Action Agencies ensure that eligible individuals can receive medical, dental, and mental health services they require to maintain their health and well-being. Programs prioritize quality care to underserved populations. 

The Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County (CAB Santa Cruz County) participates in health fairs and partners with outside organizations to bring healthcare services to those unable to acquire them alone. On Thursday, June 17th, 2021, during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic, CAB Santa Cruz County participated in and provided staff for a free COVID-19 Vaccine Walk-In Clinic. Walk-in clinics offer flexibility to those working or not, housed or unhoused, and those who are hindered by required co-payments.

Community Action Agencies also support local providers and resources, such as county health fairs. Health fairs have onsite personnel that can offer support and information, as well as provide direct onsite healthcare services, such as dental screenings, blood pressure testing, vision screening, etc. which serve as essentials in terms of education and preventative 

Preventative care is the cornerstone of maintaining good health and preventing chronic conditions. Community Action Agency programs emphasize the importance of preventative care and wellness by providing regular check-ups, vaccinations, screenings, and health education. By focusing on prevention, programs empower individuals to take control of their health and avoid more serious health issues in the future. 

Addressing Healthcare Disparities

Healthcare disparities persist in our society, disproportionately affecting vulnerable and neglected populations. Community Action Agency healthcare services and programs aim to reduce these disparities by ensuring equitable access to healthcare services. By removing financial barriers, offering language assistance, and catering to diverse cultural needs, the program bridges the gap and ensures that no one is left behind in receiving essential healthcare. 

California Advancing and Innovating Medi-Cal (CalAIM) is intended to do just that. Serving as a whole person-centered approach. Specific initiatives and services provided through CalAIM include:

• Population Health Management
• Enhanced Care Management
• Community Supports (“In Lieu of Services”)
• New Dental Benefits
• Behavioral Health Delivery System Transformation
• Services and Supports for Justice-involved Adults and Youth
• Transition to Statewide Dual Eligible Special Needs Plans and Managed Long-Term Services and Supports
• Standard Enrollment with Consistent Managed Care Benefits
• Delivery System Transformation

Reducing Financial Burdens

Healthcare expenses can place a significant burden on individuals and families, particularly those with limited financial resources. Community Action Agency programs reduce this financial burden by offering affordable and accessible healthcare services. Through partnerships with healthcare providers and government programs, like CalAIM, Community Action Agencies maximize resources to ensure that individuals and families receive the care they need without experiencing financial strain. 

Improving Health Outcomes

Access to healthcare is directly linked to improved health outcomes. By providing comprehensive and accessible healthcare services, Community Action Agency programs contribute to better health outcomes for individuals and communities. Regular medical check ups, timely treatments, and preventative care help individuals manage chronic conditions, reduce hospitalizations, and improve overall quality of life.

Promoting Health Equity and Community Well-being

Community Action Agency healthcare programs play a vital role in promoting health equity and community well-being. By addressing the healthcare needs of underserved populations, the program works towards reducing disparities and improving the overall health of communities. Healthy individuals are more engaged, productive, and better positioned to contribute to the growth and prosperity of their communities.

Homelessness and health are inextricably linked. In the scope of CalAIM, its goal for the unhoused populations– or those at risk of becoming– is to provide a whole-person approach to care and to better address the social factors that impact their health. Services directly aimed towards supporting these communities are:

• Housing transition and navigation services, housing deposit assistance, housing tenancy and sustaining services, 
• Medical Respite,
• Sobering centers, and 
• Day habilitation

When we put emphasis on ensuring healthcare services provided by Community Action Agencies are promoting equity and community well-being, you will see the intertwining of wraparound services and improvement in communities. 

Collaboration and Partnerships

Community Action Agencies already provide services that assist individuals and families apply for services like MediCal, SNAP, WIC, and now with program reforms like CalAIM, they’re now receiving additional funding to operate these programs. Local and state partnerships are vital to wraparound services evolution and success. 

Community Action Agencies recognize the power of collaboration and partnerships in delivering effective healthcare services. By working closely with healthcare providers, various outside community organizations, and state programs, Community Action Agencies ensure they’re using a comprehensive approach to improving healthcare accessibility, and bringing additional resources, expertise, and support services, enhancing the impact and reach of healthcare programs. 

 

Community Action Agency healthcare programs are a lifeline that improve lives, promote wellness, and ensure access to essential healthcare services. By providing comprehensive support, addressing health disparities, reducing financial burdens, and promoting preventative care, their programs empower individuals and communities to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. We celebrate and advocate the transformative benefits of Community Action Agency programs that work to create a future where quality healthcare is accessible and foster stronger, and healthier, communities.