Chronic illnesses may affect all sorts of body systems. For example, diabetes can affect the cardiovascular system, the eyes, kidneys, nerves, skin, and teeth. Arthritis affects muscles, bones, joints, and—depending on the type of arthritis—the associated inflammation can affect other body systems, such as the heart or the skin. Chronic kidney disease affects the kidneys,…
Six in 10 Americans are living with conditions that limit the way they live or require regular medical attention. When these kinds of conditions develop slowly over time and last for longer than a year, they are referred to as chronic disease. Chronic disease should not be confused with acute conditions, which develop suddenly and…
Undocumented immigrants struggle when they need to access medical care. “Undocumented immigrants don’t have access to insurance; they can’t buy insurance through the marketplace,” says Mayra Casas Jackson, Executive Director of the Immigrant and Refugee Law Center (IRLC). They are not eligible for Medicaid either. That means they must pay out of pocket for every…
When immigrants move to a new country, they tend to settle in a neighborhood where immigrants from their country of origin have already built a community. Think about the various Chinatowns and Little Italy neighborhoods in many American cities. Chicago’s neighborhoods represent some good examples. Pilsen originally was home to Czech immigrants; Andersonville provided a…
Did you know that having a playground in your neighborhood could affect the health of people who live there? The amount of education you receive? Whether you have a strong community who will support you if you need help? The social drivers of health (SDoH) are factors that affect health. The five SDoH domains are…
As we approach the holiday season, many of us anticipate gatherings with loved ones. We look forward to showing care and appreciation for family and friends through sharing time, food and perhaps even gifts. Many of us will also reflect on our charitable giving over the past year. Have we done enough to support the…
Election Day is Tuesday November 5th, and polls will be open that day 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. For those of us who care about community health, this year’s election offers many opportunities to weigh in on the issues that matter to us in southwest Ohio and throughout the state. In Hamilton County we’ll decide…
How does immigration status affect one’s ability to access healthcare in the United States? The answer depends on many factors, including whether that person has documentation to show she is legally in the country, how long the person has been in the U.S., and in what state that person is seeking care. The federal government…
Reine Kukwikila came to the United States from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Her first job upon arriving was at the airport, where she washed dishes. Over time she has become a Community Health Worker (CHW) and supports people throughout southwest Ohio, many of whom are themselves immigrants. Kukwikila knows first-hand the challenges they face. …
Health Care Access Now (HCAN) CEO Sarah Mills is leaving HCAN to take on a new role at Partnerships for Advancing Community Health (PACH). HCAN is dedicated to promoting health equity by addressing the social determinants of health. Through its network of Community Health Workers (CHWs), the organization has been integral to connecting underserved communities…
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