Impact Of Community Health Workers on Healthcare Access

As of July 2007, all residents of MA are required to have health insurance, or pay a state tax penalty. This is the first state to require health insurance. To ensure that everyone has access to affordable health insurance, reduced fee programs were created. The HOPE Project, a program of Community Action Committee of Cape Cod and Islands Inc, has seven employees who are dedicated to help residents apply for health insurance programs, link to primary care physicians and gain better access to health care. We are a culturally competent team. We serve a diverse community, 45% of our clients come from other countries. To reach our target populations we use hands on outreach strategies, networking and media. HOPE Projects Community Health Workers have caused a great on the local community. We have provided our clients with Education on the new mandate, worked on a regional outreach plan, created educational materials in 3 languages, maintained collaborative relationships with thirty local organizations and are the lead agency for community health centers and local community organizations. The HOPE Project represents Massachusetts Association of Community Health Workers. Together we ensure our community has access to care.