Building Community Health Worker Capacity in Utah
GrantID: 43483
Grant Funding Amount Low: $5,000
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: $500,000
Summary
Grant Overview
Community Health Worker Initiatives in Utah
Capacity Gaps Specific to Utah
Utah faces distinct challenges in the healthcare sector, particularly regarding the availability of community health workers (CHWs) to serve its diverse population. With rapid population growth and significant rural areas, particularly in the western and southern parts of the state, there are insufficient health professionals to adequately address public health needs. Many communities, especially in rural and underserved areas, lack access to healthcare resources and information, contributing to health disparities and poorer health outcomes.
Infrastructure/Workforce Constraints
The existing healthcare system in Utah struggles to provide comprehensive services due to workforce shortages, particularly in rural regions where CHWs can play a pivotal role. Additionally, there is a need for structured training programs to equip CHWs with the skills they need to navigate the healthcare landscape effectively. This situation highlights the urgent demand for capacity-building initiatives to develop a competent workforce that can bridge the gap between healthcare providers and the communities they serve.
Readiness Requirements
Organizations applying for funding must demonstrate their readiness to implement effective CHW training initiatives. This includes outlining partnerships with healthcare organizations, educational institutions, and community leaders to create a robust training and support system. Proposals should articulate plans for culturally competent training programs that reflect the needs of Utah's diverse demographic and geographical landscape, ensuring relevance and effectiveness.
Unlike Idaho, Utah's focus on community health workers addresses specific gaps stemming from its unique population growth and healthcare access issues. This localized approach supports targeted capacity-building efforts that are critical to public health.
Target Outcomes for Utah
The initiative aims to increase the number of trained CHWs in Utah by 30% over the next two years. A key outcome is to improve health access for at least 5,000 individuals in rural and underserved areas, which will be assessed through metrics such as service utilization rates and health outcome improvements. This effort aims to create a sustainable network of CHWs equipped to tackle public health challenges effectively.
Why These Outcomes Matter in Utah
These outcomes are vital given Utah’s booming population, which has seen substantial increases in healthcare demands. Establishing a competent workforce of CHWs will enable communities to access necessary services and guidance, ultimately leading to improved public health outcomes. Focusing on building this workforce not only addresses immediate health disparities but also fosters long-term community health stability.
Implementation Approach
Implementation will involve coordinating with local health departments, community organizations, and educational institutions to create comprehensive training programs for CHWs. The approach includes developing training modules tailored to specific community health needs and ongoing support for CHWs post-training. Evaluation will focus on health improvements and community engagement, ensuring that the initiative effectively builds capacity and responds to Utah's unique public health landscape.
Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
