Strengthening the HealthConnect Network
In 2024, HealthConnect Hub developed exciting partnerships that helped us strengthen our network. These new efforts were built to address many of the obstacles community members face in accessing the care and resources they need. We solidified a partnership with Molina Healthcare, designed to support maternal and prenatal care. Often times these resources are limited or hard to access. This new pilot program helps us bridge the gap between providers and one of the most vulnerable populations in the region.
We also launched a new partnership with PeaceHealth and Share House, designed to support unhoused individuals who are seeking emergency services. This new program helps us connect community members experiencing houselessness to a variety of services and supports through our network of Community-Based Workers. This partnership was created as part of the new Community Hub at PeaceHealth – a physical space where community members can seek support directly from community-based organizations (CBOs).
Establishing the Community Care Hubs of Washington
This past year, we also joined forces with the eight other Accountable Communities of Health (ACHs) to launch the Community Care Hubs of Washington. This new coalition developed a shared goal to advance equity across Washington communities, through community hubs. Through this new network, our entire state is covered by care coordination resources – building a structure that supports the needs of everyone in Washington.
Each of these hubs provides a community-based, community-wide connection to resources and services in their region. This approach allows us to build localized, culturally responsive and community driven services that bridge the gap to care that folks often face.
Leveraging Community Voice Through the HealthConnect Advisory Council
HealthConnect continued to strengthen relationships with the HealthConnect Advisory Council, and the various subcommittees that support it. The advisory council provided valuable insight into HealthConnect operations, and served as a resource to leverage community voice to shape our work. The Advisory Council, and the various subcommittees that support it, are made up of community members and professionals representing a variety of experiences, insights, and expertise. Their guidance in this work last year provided crucial considerations that help us develop equitable strategies that meet the needs of our communities.
Supporting Workforce Development
A key element to the success of the HealthConnect Hub is supporting our regional community-based workforce. Our CBWs are an essential part of the success of our hub, and provide a crucial support to community members across Southwest Washington. Their ability to connect with and assist community members experiencing hardship and difficulties is inspiring. Their work can literally change lives.
In 2024, our organization was committed to providing these CBWs with the trainings, resources and information that not only allow them to advance their careers but also enhance their ability to support their communities. Throughout the year, we regularly convened this workforce for trainings on topics like motivational interviewing, working with people who have experienced trauma, managing aggressive behavior, and more. Through workforce development efforts, we ensured that the CBWs in Southwest Washington had the tools and resources they need to be successful in their work, while feeling supported and empowered.
What does a successful, established hub look like?
SWACH is proud of the work being done by HealthConnect. Their work over the years has helped us establish a successful and established hub, which is a great resource for our community. The strength of our hub can be traced back to five crucial elements:
Looking ahead to 2025
As we look forward to the year ahead, there is exciting work for the HealthConnect Hub in front of us. Key priorities will include:
Identifying and supporting priority populations – done through a landscape assessment, the identification of these populations will help us build programing that truly meets the needs of individuals in our region.
Expanding outreach for referrals – an important step for us in 2025 is to improve outreach to our referral partners and strengthening the avenues we use to receive referrals. This will help us ensure that people are getting the proper care they need.
Continue to implement strategies and resources to support our Community-Based Workers and empower them in their work.
Moving Forward, Together
The work of care coordination and community hubs is so important. It allows to provide the appropriate care across our community to folks, when and how they need it. It also helps us better understand the needs of our communities, and develop the programing to address them. This work requires a strong network of partners with shared goals and a dedication to collaboration. We couldn’t have this impact without the many partner organizations who participate in this work at any capacity.
