Building Community Health Worker Capacity in Tennessee
GrantID: 13033
Grant Funding Amount Low: $61,139
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $82,781
Summary
Grant Overview
Capacity Gaps in Health Services in Tennessee
Tennessee's healthcare system faces substantial capacity gaps, particularly in the management of chronic diseases among low-income populations. The state has one of the highest rates of chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and heart disease, largely affecting economically disadvantaged communities. The Tennessee Department of Health reports that nearly 30% of adults have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, and many do not have access to effective management programs.
Infrastructure and Workforce Constraints
The infrastructure to support chronic disease management is often lacking in Tennessee, especially in rural areas where healthcare facilities are limited. A shortage of healthcare professionalscoupled with inadequate funding for preventive servicesleaves many residents without the necessary care. Community health worker support programs have emerged as a strategy to fill these gaps, enabling better health education and resource connections for at-risk populations.
Introducing Community Health Worker Programs
Tennessee has allocated funding to develop community health worker support programs to assist individuals in managing chronic diseases. These programs aim to provide personalized support for individuals, facilitating connections to medical services and resources. By empowering community health workers who are familiar with local challenges, the initiative seeks to enhance health literacy among low-income populations, thereby improving management outcomes for chronic conditions.
Expected Outcomes
Implementing these community health worker programs can improve health outcomes for Tennesseans by fostering greater engagement in personal health management and reducing hospital readmissions. Tailored interventions can serve to address specific local needs while enhancing collaboration between patients and healthcare providers. By leveraging existing community structures, Tennessee aims to create a more resilient healthcare environment, ultimately ensuring that vulnerable populations receive the care and support they require to thrive.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
