Community well being staff function a significant hyperlink between folks and suppliers to bridge disparities in well being care entry and high quality in Vermont communities.

Numerous analysis research have proven the effectiveness of CHW applications, particularly in rural and underserved areas. One study even discovered a CHW program to yield a return of $2.47 for each greenback invested. 

Despite proof on the constructive impacts, there’s a lack of presidency funding and assist for these applications. The pandemic sparked Congress to go payments investing in CHWs, however Vermont has not begun to broaden Medicaid protection like many different states have achieved. Given our state’s growing old and more and more numerous inhabitants, Vermont would profit significantly from investing in educated group members who help folks in accessing, navigating and managing medical and social providers.

There is an rising invoice in Congress that goals to combine and enhance reimbursement for group well being employee providers below Medicare and Medicaid. CHW applications not solely enhance the standard, accessibility and cultural competency of well being care, however are cost-effective, with the potential to save lots of Medicaid hundreds of {dollars} per affected person annually. 

By calling on U.S. Rep. Becca Balint and Sens. Peter Welch and Bernie Sanders to assist this group well being staff invoice, we are able to do our half in enhancing well being outcomes for Vermonters.

Camille Howard

Burlington

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