PHIADELPHIA, PA - A groundbreaking partnership between the Office of Community Empowerment and Opportunity (CEO), Philadelphia Community Engagement Alliance (CEAL), and Penn Nursing has secured a $5.5 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). This significant investment aims to revolutionize chronic disease management among Philadelphia residents by empowering community health workers (CHWs) and addressing the social factors influencing health.
Building on a longstanding collaboration, this initiative represents a significant step forward in providing personalized support to residents grappling with chronic conditions. Over the next four years, the $3.2 million allocated to the CHW program will enable the expansion and evaluation of their vital work. This encompasses various services, from wellness workshops and resource navigation to crucial assistance with scheduling medical appointments.
"Our partnership with the City of Philadelphia and Philly CEAL has been instrumental in addressing pressing health concerns, from COVID-19 to various social determinants of health," said Orlando Rendon, CEO and Executive Director. "We are building a resilient foundation for the future of public health, ensuring that our communities have the tools and resources they need to thrive."
A vital component of this initiative involves training CHWs in the DECIDE intervention, a proven approach to enhance their skills in group-based chronic disease self-management. Additionally, an integrated research program will generate valuable data to inform local stakeholders and policymakers, ultimately advocating for the continued investment and sustainability of the CHW program beyond the study's scope.
Penn Nursing researchers will spearhead a cutting-edge study to improve chronic disease self-management and address the underlying social determinants of health. This multifaceted project includes training CHWs to lead group sessions that empower residents with the knowledge and skills to manage their cardiovascular health effectively. Recognizing the impact of social factors like food access and safe housing, the research team will collaborate with community partners to develop solutions for these critical issues.
"This partnership is a testament to our shared vision of equitable health access for all," said Penn Nursing Dean Antonia M. Villarruel. "We are thrilled to expand our efforts and provide much-needed infrastructure support for community health workers in this crucial endeavor."
This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant milestone in Philadelphia's fight against chronic diseases. By empowering residents, addressing root causes of health disparities, and fostering community-based solutions, Philly CEAL, CEO, and Penn Nursing are paving the way for a healthier, more equitable future for all Philadelphians.
Building on a longstanding collaboration, this initiative represents a significant step forward in providing personalized support to residents grappling with chronic conditions. Over the next four years, the $3.2 million allocated to the CHW program will enable the expansion and evaluation of their vital work. This encompasses various services, from wellness workshops and resource navigation to crucial assistance with scheduling medical appointments.
"Our partnership with the City of Philadelphia and Philly CEAL has been instrumental in addressing pressing health concerns, from COVID-19 to various social determinants of health," said Orlando Rendon, CEO and Executive Director. "We are building a resilient foundation for the future of public health, ensuring that our communities have the tools and resources they need to thrive."
A vital component of this initiative involves training CHWs in the DECIDE intervention, a proven approach to enhance their skills in group-based chronic disease self-management. Additionally, an integrated research program will generate valuable data to inform local stakeholders and policymakers, ultimately advocating for the continued investment and sustainability of the CHW program beyond the study's scope.
Penn Nursing researchers will spearhead a cutting-edge study to improve chronic disease self-management and address the underlying social determinants of health. This multifaceted project includes training CHWs to lead group sessions that empower residents with the knowledge and skills to manage their cardiovascular health effectively. Recognizing the impact of social factors like food access and safe housing, the research team will collaborate with community partners to develop solutions for these critical issues.
"This partnership is a testament to our shared vision of equitable health access for all," said Penn Nursing Dean Antonia M. Villarruel. "We are thrilled to expand our efforts and provide much-needed infrastructure support for community health workers in this crucial endeavor."
This groundbreaking initiative marks a significant milestone in Philadelphia's fight against chronic diseases. By empowering residents, addressing root causes of health disparities, and fostering community-based solutions, Philly CEAL, CEO, and Penn Nursing are paving the way for a healthier, more equitable future for all Philadelphians.