A new digital platform has been launched in churches on the South and West sides of Chicago in an effort to address health disparities in Black communities. The initiative, led by the Faith 1 Network and the Patient Point Foundation, aims to provide health education, access to doctors and clinics, and address misconceptions and distrust some African Americans have about the medical profession.
The interactive engagement platform, installed as digital health kiosks in sanctuaries, allows people to access information on nutrition, disease management, and mental health for themselves or their loved ones. The kiosks have large touch screens, making it easy to read and navigate through the available resources.
In addition to the digital platform, the program relies on church members acting as community health ambassadors and trained health coaches to provide assistance and support to individuals accessing the information. These ambassadors and coaches work together to ensure that people are well-informed and guided towards the appropriate resources.
The South Side Health Equity Collaborative and Insight Hospital have expressed their support for the initiative. The program aims to bridge the gap in healthcare information and services, which are often limited in marginalized communities.
The initial roll-out will see five kiosks installed in churches on the South and West sides of Chicago, with plans to expand to more congregations in October. The involvement of churches in addressing health disparities is seen as beneficial, as churches are trusted institutions within these communities.
The platform has already garnered significant attention, with nearly 2 million users since its launch last year. The cost of each kiosk is approximately $2,000, with the aim of providing accessible and reliable health information to those who need it most.
This innovative initiative marks an important step towards addressing health disparities and promoting better healthcare education and access in Black communities in Chicago. [Source: ABC7 Chicago]
Definitions:
- Health disparities: Refers to the disproportionate rate of diseases and illnesses among different population groups, often influenced by factors such as race, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and access to healthcare.
Sources:
- ABC7 Chicago – Source of the original article
