NYC Gazette

The Community Health Worker Institute (CHWI) at Montefiore has reached a significant milestone. Since its inception in 2021, the program has aided over 10,000 households in the Bronx, reshaping healthcare delivery by fostering new career opportunities in the field. CHWI employs 34 community health workers (CHWs) across various healthcare settings, including Montefiore Einstein Comprehensive Cancer Center, to address the gaps between medical care and social services.

CHWs are strategically placed in response to a social determinants of health (SDOH) survey that highlights issues like housing and food insecurity affecting patient health. Montefiore's research links these determinants to missed medical appointments and increased reliance on emergency services. Findings indicate that individuals with one health-related social need contribute to about 175,000 missed appointments each year. Although patients facing more than one such need incur additional costs to the healthcare system, 94% see improvements after consulting with a CHW.

Renee Whiskey-LaLanne, M.P.H., MCHES, highlights, "The Bronx is known for being the home of the Yankees, now the number of people who have identified at least one social need can fill up the whole stadium." She emphasizes the progress in managing asthma and diabetes among other health issues.

CHWs at Montefiore often hail from the local community, sharing experiences with residents they assist, thus building trust and understanding. Many have progressed to roles such as supervisors and training specialists, opening career paths in social work, nursing, and beyond. Kevin Fiori, M.D., M.P.H., M.S., underlines that the investment in CHWs not only enhances the health and well-being of residents but also provides new career options: “Our community isn’t just where people live and work – it is home to our greatest resource for delivering healthcare more effectively and making a real impact on people’s lives.”

Montefiore has screened over 340,000 individuals since 2018, making it one of the most extensive SDOH screening initiatives nationally, with 14% of patients reporting at least one social need. According to Fiori, the community serves as a pivotal resource for advancing healthcare efficiency and improving lives.