Accessing Community Health Worker Funding in West Virginia's Appalachian Mountains
GrantID: 15195
Grant Funding Amount Low: $3,000,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $56,000,000
Summary
Grant Overview
West Virginia faces notable barriers in healthcare access, particularly in rural areas where the healthcare workforce has long struggled to meet community needs. According to the West Virginia Rural Health Association, 32 of the state’s 55 counties are designated as Health Professional Shortage Areas, indicating critical gaps in healthcare services. This shortage exacerbates health disparities, leaving many residents without adequate access to preventive care or health education resources.
The population most affected by these barriers includes unemployed individuals seeking to enter the workforce, particularly in areas hit hard by economic decline. Many rural communities in West Virginia have been challenged by a lack of employment opportunities, leading to high unemployment rates that often correlate with poorer health outcomes. This scenario underlines the importance of equipping community members with the skills needed to navigate the healthcare system and promote health within their communities.
The Community Health Worker Training Program is designed to address these issues by providing education and certification for community members to become health workers and advocates in their neighborhoods. The program focuses on training individuals in health promotion, education on navigating healthcare services, and building community-based health initiatives. By engaging local healthcare providers and institutions, the initiative aims to create a workforce that is attuned to the unique needs of West Virginia's diverse communities.
By fostering local talent and empowering community members, this program seeks to improve health outcomes in West Virginia. The trained community health workers will serve as vital links between healthcare providers and residents, ensuring that critical health information reaches those most in need. This program not only aims to fill workforce gaps but also to encourage a proactive approach to community health through local engagement.
In summary, the Community Health Worker Training Program addresses significant workforce shortages in healthcare while simultaneously promoting health education and engagement among the community. West Virginia aims to enhance overall health outcomes and build local capacity through this initiative, creating a sustainable model for improving health in underserved areas.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
