BY JENNIFER GAZDA, LCSW, CMC, CDP
When involved in a discussion of potential topics for this publication related to health equity, I listened and tried to find what area was not included in a means to participate. Representation for the LGBTQIA2S+ population was not readily apparent, so I decided to explore some current research and see where it led me.
BY DR. RAINE ARNDT-COUCH, DSW, JD, LCSW, CCM
Health equity is a fundamental goal in healthcare, aiming to ensure that everyone has a fair and just opportunity to be as healthy as possible. Community health workers (CHWs) play a crucial role in achieving this goal, by leveraging their unique skills and lived experience to bridge healthcare delivery gaps and address the social determinants of health. This article explores the role and value of CHWs, the current policy landscape underlying the provision of CHW services and offers practical actions case managers and others in the healthcare continuum can take to ensure CHWs are included in comprehensive strategies to achieve health equity.
BY ANITA MINGO, MSW, LICSW, CAROLINA MOSLEY, RN, MSN, CCM, CPHQ, CPHM, AND CATOVIA RAYNER, DHA, MPH, MSW, LCSW
The social drivers of health (SDoH) can affect a wide range of health outcomes and quality of life outcomes. There are five common domains; economic stability, education, health and healthcare, neighborhood and built environment, and social community context. We seek health equity for all.
BY JANET COULTER, MSN, MS, RN, CCM, FCM
Food insecurity, defined as the lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life, is an issue affecting millions of individuals and families. Understanding the causes of food insecurity and implementing targeted interventions are essential for case managers.
BY LISA BEDNARZ, LCSW, CMAC, ACM-SW
Catalyzed by the COVID-19 pandemic and supported by the aging American public, home-based care is being hailed as the next “big thing” in healthcare.
BY KELVA EDMUNDS-WALLER, DNP, RN, CCM
Primary care is the gateway of healthcare delivery, positive health outcomes and health equity. Case managers can address implementation barriers by standardizing case management care delivery and collecting and communicating population health outcomes.