The Center for Population Health (CPH) was selected for the Highmark Bright Blue Futures Award for nonprofits.
CPH was selected for the award for its impactful work via the Community Care HUB, which utilizes the Pathways Community HUB Model to coordinate care for individuals with complex health needs. The HUB’s focus populations include pregnant people, parents of children aged 0-18 months, two school district populations, and those experiencing substance use disorder.
“We are deeply honored to receive the Highmark Bright Blue Futures Award and to be recognized among such outstanding organizations who are doing incredible work to advance health equity within their communities,” said CPH Data Analyst Leann Lovejoy. “It was an invaluable opportunity to connect and exchange ideas and best practices with those who share our passion for improving community health. This award reinforces our commitment to improving health outcomes and to continue driving progress in our region through the Community Care HUB.”
Since the HUB’s inception in 2020, it has received over 2,200 referrals, made more than 10,000 contacts, and enrolled over 1,000 participants. The HUB’s Community Health Workers (CHWs) have opened over 5,000 pathways to address Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) needs, such as transportation, education, employment, and stable housing.
In the almost 4 years the HUB has been active, it has seen positive maternal and infant health outcomes, with significant improvements among Black or African American participants. There have been 183 babies born within the HUB with 85% born at term and 87% with a normal birthweight. Also, less than 15% of participants received inadequate prenatal care.
HUB participants have expressed how support from CHWs have significantly improved their access to healthcare, provided valuable health education, and helped them navigate complex social services. Participant feedback has indicated that we are increasing trust in healthcare systems and health and human services, as well as improving engagement with health-related social activities, and improving access to care.
Highmark Bright Blue Futures is a charitable giving and community involvement program. The goal of the program is to, according to its overview, “ensure healthier, brighter, stronger futures for all.” It recognizes eligible non-profit organizations within Highmark’s footprint (Pennsylvania, Delaware, western and eastern New York, and West Virginia) who are spearheading impactful health equity work.
Award selection criteria includes:
- Impactful initiatives in the health equity space
- Evidence of addressing SDOHs
- Programs aimed at reducing health disparities
- Demonstration of collaborative partnerships and community engagement
The awards are funded by the Highmark Foundation, which is a private, charitable organization dedicated to public health and human service initiatives.
CPH received a monetary award of $60,000 to further its health equity work.
Lovejoy and Communications Coordinator Allie Byers attended the Highmark Bright Blue Futures Awards Ceremony in Pittsburgh on September 23 to accept the award and stayed for the Thought Leadership Forum on September 24.