Transforming access in an underserved urban community through novel collaborations

The mission of Mattapan Community Health Center (MCHC) is to improve the quality of life for residents of Mattapan and surrounding communities by providing comprehensive, accessible, affordable, and culturally appropriate community health care services, including primary and preventive health services. Located in the Mattapan neighborhood, which is 75% Black (US Census 2010) of Boston, MA, MCHC is a major resource for residents seeking comprehensive health care services. Since 1972, MCHC has worked collaboratively with health, church, social service and community agencies to maximize resources for patient care. These collaborations and partnerships have brought needed services and programs into a community that has some of the worst health outcomes as compared to other Boston neighborhoods. Working together with these CBOs, offered a creative way of providing care and moved the health center's efforts from not only within the facility but also to the community where it was needed. The programs and initiatives such as the Walking Group – increased physical activity; Health Care Revival – attended by over 700 people who receive FREE dental, diabetes, breast, prostate, cholesterol, blood pressure, eye, and hearing screenings, enhanced the visibility of the health center, improved community access to and use of health services, and engaged the community in being a partner with the health center in addressing personal health needs and decreasing health disparities. Implementation of programs with support from state, city and local partners,will demonstrate how collaborations and partnerships are developed and nurtured to improve the health status of an urban community.