Dr. Eric Whitaker, University of Chicago executive vice president for strategic affiliations and associate dean for community-based research, oversees the Urban Health Initiative (UHI). This partnership between the University of Chicago Medical Center and community doctors, clinics, and hospitals seeks to address and improve the long-term health of South Side residents. The main research and discovery arm of UHI is the South Side Health and Vitality Studies, which focus on social, environmental, and technological factors and their impact on health and wellness. Dr. Whitaker leads a group of panelists deeply invested in the studies’ work in a discussion about the ramifications of its findings and the impact on delivering quality health care to an under-served population.
-Patient Advocates ’s link patient from ER and the community to primary care
More than 140 participants with approximately 60% from community. 1 st time community invited formally
Group 3: Example Going Well: Working with vs. against community—e.g., training physicians to stay here Wider geographic scope of work—and can do more Global view Recognition of socioeconomic factors and their influence on health Raising safety net of FQHC’s Online asset inventory is a strong resource Soutsidehealth.org meetings open to the public Barriers Communications -Layered -Early and often Community connectors: More People on the ground Use youth Hub Clearer messaging/less confusing Work better with FQHC Put specialists at FQHC More (especially adult medicine) Start with the community before launching initiatives. Not after the framework has been decided Make community an equal partner It’s frustrating to hear about the research after it’s been published. -Share it with: -Point of service -Local papers -Community groups Need a more family-centered approach Clearinghouse for resources across issues The University needs a stronger needs assessment for distribution of available resources—including communication to community about what exists. The current outreach strategy is reactive/data-driven vs. proactive. opportunities Intentionally working with indigenous CBO’s Grow strength at FQHC from the bottom up. Focus on empowering within communities. Children at the center Produce strong neighborhoods. Engage around a community strategy upfront. Leadership and organizing Development/focus Sensitivity issues/training for community engagement Training program for community organizers Outreach to new populations Get SSHC brochures out. All South Side ER’s Beauty salons Etc. Work with youth. They will communicate to communities/families. Consult youth to update current strategies. Use appropriate means to reach youth: -Internet -Facebook -Twitter -Skype -Newspapers not a strong resource for youth -Layered approach for communication -Newspapers Door-to-door outreach Need legs Community health workers Public programs like at park districts Health fairs Block clubs Day care centers Funding more community connectors Health worker/organizers/brokers Sustain and implement the work. Community education/increase awareness- people in the field Health care reform education-in the field The common thread is poverty for all disparities issues. Public and private investment Get money from results (HCPZ). If the partnership is controversial, explain why you’re partnering. Vetting of funders Community advisory group across neighborhoods Opinion of funding sources will vary. Continuing to work together to attract funding