Hospitals are focusing on promoting healthy communities by addressing social drivers of health. Children’s Hospital Los Angeles engaged young people in assessing their community’s health through a photography project. Community Health Improvement Week celebrates collaborative efforts to advance well-being and health equity. The American Hospital Association highlights resources and inspiring initiatives, including videos showcasing impactful programs. Organizations are encouraged to share their community health improvement work and contribute to the ongoing efforts of identifying needs, implementing interventions, and promoting healthier communities.
When we think about what constitutes a healthy community, various factors come to mind, including access to nutritious food, safe environments for individuals of all ages, quality healthcare services, educational opportunities, and more. To understand the impact of social drivers on health, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles collaborated with local youth organizations to engage young people in assessing their community’s health. This initiative, along with other endeavors, highlights the commitment of hospitals and organizations to promote well-being, advance health equity, and foster healthier communities.
Youth Engagement in Community Health:
Children’s Hospital Los Angeles embarked on an inspiring project that involved young individuals in evaluating the health of their community. The medical team inspired the youngsters to actively participate by introducing them to the idea of social drivers of health and studying how the community affects their well-being. These young people went out into their areas equipped with cameras, documenting the assets and health needs of the neighborhood. The roughly 150 images that resulted from this project were prominently presented at the AHA Advancing Health Equality Conference in Minneapolis and were featured in an online exhibit titled “Through My Lens: Elevating the Voices of LA County Children.” For more information on this impactful project, please visit AHA.org.
Community Health Improvement Week:
From June 12 to 18, we celebrate Community Health Improvement Week, an annual event that recognizes the collaborative efforts of hospitals, health systems, national organizations, and community groups to enhance the health and well-being of individuals and communities while promoting health equity. The American Hospital Association (AHA) utilizes this occasion to showcase an array of resources and stories from the AHA Community Health Improvement (ACHI) network through various online platforms and social media channels.
Spotlight on Community Health Improvement:
This year, hospitals and health systems are presenting “Community Health Improvement in Action” videos that shed light on what contributes to a healthy community. These videos highlight creative programs and inspiring initiatives, such as the one undertaken by Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. These narratives go beyond merely inspiring stories; they outline tangible outcomes, such as reducing hospital readmissions, facilitating access to social services for patients and families, disseminating accurate health information, and ensuring equitable healthcare access.
Sharing Success Stories:
We encourage your organization to share your community health improvement endeavors and their impact. AHA.org provides valuable ideas on ways to celebrate and offers the opportunity to post your stories on social media using the hashtag #CHIWeek.
Continuing the Journey Towards Healthier Communities:
Our collective responsibility remains to identify, assess, and prioritize community health and social needs, implement targeted interventions, and enhance data sharing, research, education, and communication. By striving to create environments where everyone can enjoy good health, well-being, and opportunities for personal growth and connection, we contribute to the realization of healthier communities. Join the American Hospital Association in celebrating Community Health Improvement Week and sharing your efforts in making your community healthier.
