How Christ Community Health Services is Improving Access to Healthcare for Underserved Communities
Healthcare is a fundamental human right, but access to healthcare is not equal for all. Many low-income and marginalized communities face significant barriers that prevent them from receiving proper healthcare. One organization that is working to change this is Christ Community Health Services.
The Context of Health Inequity
The lack of access to healthcare for underserved communities is a longstanding issue in the United States. According to a report from the National Center for Health Statistics, approximately 14.5% of the population in the United States is uninsured, and the majority of these individuals are low-income.
In addition, racial and ethnic minorities face significant disparities in healthcare access and outcomes. They are less likely to have health insurance, more likely to suffer from chronic conditions, and more likely to receive lower-quality care than white individuals.
Christ Community Health Services
Christ Community Health Services (CCHS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving access to healthcare for underserved communities in the Memphis, Tennessee area. CCHS has a network of healthcare clinics that provide medical, dental, and behavioral health services to individuals who may not have access to care otherwise.
CCHS also offers a broad range of services, including primary care, chronic disease management, and preventative care. They have a team of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and other support staff, who work together to provide comprehensive care for patients.
Breaking Down Barriers
One of the biggest barriers to healthcare access for underserved communities is the cost. CCHS uses a sliding fee scale so that patients can pay for services based on their income. This means that individuals who are low-income or uninsured can still receive critical medical care.
Another barrier is the lack of transportation to healthcare appointments. CCHS has several clinic locations throughout Memphis, and they also offer transportation services to patients who need it. This ensures that individuals who may not have access to private transportation can still receive necessary medical care.
Community Partnerships
CCHS has actively sought out community partnerships to help improve access to healthcare for underserved communities. For example, they partner with local churches to provide medical services to their members. This helps to create a sense of trust and familiarity for patients who may be hesitant to seek medical care.
CCHS also partners with other organizations, such as local food banks, to address social determinants of health. By addressing factors such as food insecurity and economic instability, CCHS is taking a holistic approach to healthcare that can have long-term benefits for patients.
The Impact of CCHS
Since its inception in 1995, CCHS has provided healthcare services to more than 71,000 individuals. In 2020 alone, they provided medical care to over 19,000 patients.
CCHS has also made a significant impact on community health outcomes. For example, they have been successful in lowering rates of diabetes-related foot amputations in Memphis by 50% through their Chronic Disease Management program.
Conclusion
Christ Community Health Services is an essential organization that is making a significant impact on healthcare access for underserved communities in Memphis, Tennessee. Through their network of clinics, community partnerships, and dedication to addressing social determinants of health, CCHS is providing critical medical care to individuals who may not have access to it otherwise. In doing so, they are helping to create a more equitable healthcare system that serves all individuals, regardless of their income or background.
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