Community Health Workers Make a Major Impact in Addressing South Side Health Disparities

This summer, as part of my Applied Practice Experience (APE) with UChicago Medicine’s Governmental Affairs Department and Urban Health Initiative, I had the opportunity to engage in important public health work. I collaborated with epidemiologists, the Illinois Department of Public Health CHW Review Board, CHWs, and CHW employers. Together, we explored how the new CHW Certification and Reimbursement Act will open career and funding pathways for CHWs, ensuring sustainable opportunities for these critical health workers. Attending IDPH Review Board meetings provided valuable insights into the state regulations shaping the Illinois CHW certification program. I also analyzed CHW-patient encounter rates using UChicago Medicine’s Tableau dashboard to pinpoint where CHWs impact healthcare access most. These findings helped shape policy proposals focused on strengthening and sustaining the role of CHWs in addressing healthcare disparities.

As a Master of Public Health student specializing in Health Policy and Administration, analyzing timely state public health policies through my APE has been enlightening. I conducted literature reviews to find evidence of the effectiveness of CHW work and determined that by integrating CHWs into the healthcare structure, health systems experience enhanced patient engagement. This CHW engagement resulted in fewer low-level emergency department visits, reduced hospitalizations, and savings in healthcare spending. During my APE, I presented my findings to leaders in an oral presentation and policy brief. In presenting the findings, I also provided leaders with evidence-based policy suggestions to help them implement the new CHW certification and reimbursement policy.

The P3RC’s Applied Practice Experience Award helped me pursue opportunities aligned with my career goals. During this experience, I developed skills in advocacy, policy briefings, and systems management as UChicago Medicine aligns with current legislation and pivots its workforce. This work supports P3RC’s mission by supporting research and initiatives that promote equity in healthcare, especially among underserved populations. With the support of P3RC, it has been an honor to contribute to UChicago Medicine’s mission of creating meaningful results for its community through research, education, and inclusive care.

Next Steps for LinC Community Health Workers

UChicago’s Urban Health Initiative is committed to expanding and sustaining its CHW workforce. To support this goal, the LinC program has established a Workforce Development Program Manager position. This role will oversee the creation of comprehensive training programs, helping to ensure CHWs become a vital part of the south-side healthcare ecosystem.