How do health systems prioritize 'systemness' and its impact on community partnerships?

Large health systems are integrating care services internally to compete with digital providers, a focus known as 'systemness,' which may lead them to overlook valuable community partnerships.

What role do community health workers play in patient care and health literacy?

Community health workers help bridge health literacy gaps, build trust with diverse patient populations, and improve communication by meeting patients in familiar, trusted environments.

How can health systems better support patients with low health literacy?

Health systems can partner with community resources and adapt patient information to be more understandable, meeting patients in trusted community settings rather than expecting them to navigate complex internal systems alone.

Home / Health / Health Systems Miss Community Care by Focusing Inward

Health Systems Miss Community Care by Focusing Inward

5 Feb

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Summary

Health systems prioritize 'systemness,' potentially overlooking community partnerships.
Community health workers improve patient trust and education, especially for diverse groups.
Health literacy gaps require innovative community-based support systems.

Health Systems Miss Community Care by Focusing Inward

Large U.S. health systems are increasingly focusing on internal integration, or 'systemness,' to enhance patient experience and retention against digital competitors. This strategy, however, may inadvertently sideline crucial community partnerships, according to health system and tech leaders. A recent webinar highlighted how overemphasis on internal consolidation can obscure the value of external collaborations. Experts noted that while technology aids patient engagement, trusted community resources are vital for addressing significant health literacy gaps.

Endeavor Health in Illinois exemplifies successful community engagement by integrating community health workers. These individuals enhance trust and communication, particularly with Spanish-speaking or culturally distinct patient groups. By investing in a Community Investment Fund, Endeavor supports local organizations, such as food banks, to provide specific dietary options for patients with conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes. This approach meets patients in familiar environments where they already trust local partners.