I first became aware of the Coalition of Community Health Clinics three months ago. I was looking for an organization to gain hands-on community health experience as well as fulfill education requirements toward my bachelor degree. After snooping around on their website, I realized that this organization had something special; there was something that set it apart from other non-profit organizations. I delved through their site and learned about their inspiring background and mission.
They are a 23 year old network of thirteen private, non-profit community health clinics located throughout Multnomah County and the Coalition’s mission is to support these clinics in their efforts to provide low-cost or no-cost health care to low-income people who are uninsured or under-insured. They support four primary programs including prescription assistance, access and referral to specialty services, emergency preparedness and interpretative services. I decided to commit myself to the Coalition for a three-month internship and I have learned that their mission statement and programs does not begin to uncover the profound commitment they have to their community. Their website has a wealth of community resources and information located on over 700 pages. It not only serves as a resource for community residents seeking care, but also a resource for member clinics.
Through the website, an individual can find a nearby clinic that meets their particular service needs in addition to health news and updates. The internal website that is not accessible to the public hosts forums and information that allows members clinics to collaborate, garner support, and communicate to share best practices, utilize limited resources, coordinate patient services and find social services or specialized medical care for patients. Clinic members can also use the member resources portion of the website for health information and updates on tools to serve the community Now that I have been working with this unique and commendable organization, I have seen the impact of their website.
Through technology, they have enhanced the ability to provide direct patient care by connecting people to healthcare, which is a human necessity. I see that every page on their site contributes to the goal of providing people access to proper and quality care. Everyday, we continue to update and improve the website. I feel this is part of what makes the Coalition stand above and beyond other organizations. We are dedicated to providing the most recent news and information to the public.
Each month more than 1000 searches are completed using the ‘Find a Clinic’ search feature. Individuals seeking care are able to enter their demographic information and health concern in a brief survey and then matched to the clinic that best suits their needs. The Coalition has been able to use their website to bridge the gap between the community and access to healthcare. The Coalition’s website receives more than 7000 unique visitors a month. I feel this is a testimony to its impact on the community. There have also been many patients that have expressed their sincere appreciation.
One such individual stated, “I contacted the Coalition a few months ago when I needed a doctor desperately. I have no health insurance and what little extra money we have goes towards insuring our infant son. CCHC immediately sent me a list of not only all the clinics that see patients on a free and sliding scale, but ones that specifically could help me with my [health issue]. Thank you so much for this truly essential service. I never would have found the clinic on my own.” – Jessica L. The function of their website allows for better communication between clinics, thus, allowing referrals to flow more easily helping to ensure continual care and providing access to patients. Also, not only does this website help ensure access to care and facilitate clinic coordination, but it also guides internal staff and interns, such as myself.
I have learned a great deal from this website, about the work of the organization, community resources, health information and systems, and more. This website has been an instrument in teaching me about the world of Public Health and its authentic devotion to the health and well-being of the community.
Nonprofit
