Funding from the Connecticut Health Foundation will support advocacy efforts to ensure the effective implementation of Medicaid payment for community health workers (CHWs), a workforce that is instrumental in achieving health equity.
Southwestern AHEC along with Connecticut Association for Community Action and Community Health Center Association of Connecticut, will each receive a $65,000 grant to work together to educate community health workers on the legislative process, build awareness for the importance of sustainable funding for their services, and organize a group of supporters on the issue.
A Connecticut law passed in 2023 requires Medicaid to pay for community health worker services, however, state lawmakers have not provided funding for implementing coverage of these services. The three organizations receiving grants will help ensure CHWs are valued and compensated for the essential role they play in the health care system.
CHWs bridge the gap between the health care system and the social services that also contribute to patients’ well-being. CHWs build trust with their clients, who often come from similar backgrounds and communities, and help directly address their needs and connect them to resources. Because of their roles as trusted professionals, CHWs have been instrumental in improving health outcomes and reducing health care costs.
Other Grants: