Ohana Health Plan and Centene Foundation Support Mobile Health Access Expansion in Hawaii

Enhancing Healthcare Access for Students in Hawaii

In a significant effort to improve healthcare accessibility for children in underserved areas, 'Ohana Health Plan and the Centene Foundation have announced a $550,000 grant to the Hawai'i Island Community Health Center (HICHC). This funding aims to support HICHC's initiative named "Gateway to Health," which will introduce a new mobile health clinic dedicated to offering essential health services to students across rural regions of Hawai'i Island.

A New Mobile Clinic

The initiative will allow HICHC to expand its School-Based Health Centers (SBHC) that currently serve eight schools across five locations on the island. Many students in these areas face barriers to accessing adequate healthcare, including transportation challenges and a lack of local facilities. The mobile health clinic will provide critical medical, dental, and mental health services directly to students at their schools, effectively bridging the gap created by geographic and resource limitations.

Cecilia Sakata, the director of School-Based Health at HICHC, expressed enthusiasm about the project: "The Gateway to Health initiative is an exciting step toward ensuring that all students, no matter where they live, have the health support they need to succeed." She emphasized the importance of health access in allowing keiki (children) to focus on their studies and grow into resilient individuals.

Addressing Health Disparities

Scott Sivik, the Plan President and CEO of 'Ohana Health Plan, highlighted the lasting impact the grant could have. He stated, "This grant will make a profound and lasting impact by equipping students with the essential tools they need to stay healthy and excel academically." The mobile health clinic is designed to help combat health disparities, reduce absenteeism, and foster a healthier educational environment.

HICHC already operates several SBHCs, which provide on-site services that help eliminate the barriers to healthcare access. By involving medical professionals directly in schools, the program enhances students' ability to receive timely and comprehensive care, crucial for their academic and long-term wellness.

Community Impact

The introduction of the mobile health clinic aims not only to reduce healthcare barriers but also to lessen the financial burden on families. With more accessible healthcare, families can avoid missed workdays and transportation costs, contributing to more stable household environments. Furthermore, this initiative aligns with Centene's philanthropic mission to address social determinants of health and improve equity, particularly for underserved populations.

The mobile clinic is expected to be operational by the start of the 2025-2026 school year, which will coincide with the ongoing effort to integrate comprehensive health services in schools throughout Hawai'i Island. For more details about the Hawai'i Island Community Health Center and the impact of the Gateway to Health project, visit their official website.

About HICHC and its Mission

The Hawai'i Island Community Health Center is one of the largest Federally Qualified Health Centers in Hawaii, employing a dedicated workforce that provides care to over 40,000 residents across the island. Its mission focuses on accessible, quality healthcare regardless of patients' ability to pay. In partnership with organizations like 'Ohana Health Plan and the Centene Foundation, HICHC continues to strive towards creating healthier communities through innovative and sustainable solutions.

In conclusion, the collaboration between 'Ohana Health Plan, the Centene Foundation, and HICHC marks a pivotal advance in public health strategy, ensuring that the future generations receive the necessary health support to thrive academically and personally.