Merck Foundation Awards $1.75 Million Grant for Heart Health in Georgia
The Merck Foundation has awarded a five-year, $1.75 million grant to the Georgia Health Policy Center at Georgia State University. The grant aims to address critical barriers to good heart health for millions of Georgians.
The grant will focus on overcoming obstacles such as access to food, housing, and transportation, which significantly impact individuals affected by heart disease and high blood pressure.
Program Expansion
The grant will specifically support and expand the Atlanta Regional Collaborative for Health Improvement (ARCHI) model. ARCHI, developed by the Georgia Health Policy Center in conjunction with the Atlanta Regional Commission and the United Way of Metro Atlanta, is a groundbreaking initiative.
The ARCHI model effectively pairs patients with dedicated community health workers. These health liaisons serve as a single point of contact, coordinating care, locating essential services, and guiding individuals through the often-complex healthcare system.
Measured Impact
Early results from this community health model demonstrate significant positive outcomes, highlighting its effectiveness:
- 68 percent of patients improved their blood pressure numbers.
- Emergency room visits decreased by 39 percent.
- An impressive 91 percent of food-insecure patients gained access to nutrition support through community health workers.
- Patients also showed improved A1C scores and reduced hospital lengths of stay.
Community health workers play a crucial role in making healthcare more accessible and effective. By building strong relationships with individuals and directly addressing their specific needs, they empower patients to prioritize their health and achieve greater stability.