A Holistic Approach to Health

Children's hospitals are much more than medical facilities where surgeons perform lifesaving operations, acutely ill children heal, and physicians conduct groundbreaking research. They are vital community assets, dedicated to advancing the overall health and well-being of children and their families, something we celebrate as we recognize Community Health Improvement Week.

Community health is central to children’s hospitals’ missions. The multifaceted approach extends health care beyond the walls of the hospital, bringing preventive measures directly to children and families in the communities where they live, learn, and play.

Understanding community health work

Addressing community health is part of the origin story for children’s hospitals, many of which were founded to meet the unmet needs of children in their communities. Today, that extends beyond providing health care to focusing on prevention and wellness initiatives and addressing social drivers of health, such as food security, housing, transportation, and access to care.

As community anchors, children’s hospitals and health systems are well suited to improve the health outcomes of the children and families that live in the communities they serve, whether they are patients of the hospital system or not. By forging relationships with schools, nonprofits, and grassroots organizations, children’s hospitals help promote whole child wellness.

How children’s hospitals make an impact

Children’s hospitals work hand in hand with stakeholders and advocates to identify and address the health needs that challenge their communities. Examples of community health initiatives:

School-based health programs: Many hospitals partner with local schools to provide health services, screenings, and educational programs directly on campus, making access easier for children and families.

Mobile health clinics: Some hospitals deploy mobile clinics to reach underserved neighborhoods, offering vaccinations, check-ups, and health education where it’s needed most.

Nutrition and physical activity programs: Initiatives aimed at addressing food insecurity and promoting healthy eating and active lifestyles, such as cooking classes and fitness programs, help combat childhood obesity and instill lifelong healthy habits.

Addressing health disparities: Socioeconomic factors create health disparities in many communities. Children's hospitals help identify and address disparities through targeted outreach programs. By partnering with local organizations, schools, and community leaders, hospitals launch tailored interventions that meet the specific needs of underserved populations.

Education and advocacy: Children's hospitals often serve as centers for education and advocacy on children's health issues. By providing resources and training for parents, caregivers, and community members, hospitals raise awareness about critical health topics. Advocacy efforts aimed at policy change further amplify their impact, ensuring that children's health remains a priority at local and national levels.

Research and Innovation: Children's hospitals engage in research that informs community health initiatives. Studying trends and outcomes in their local communities allows hospitals to develop innovative programs that target specific challenges. This research not only improves care within the hospital but also contributes to the broader field of public health.

Children’s hospitals’ community health work is core to their mission of promoting the health and well-being of children. By addressing health disparities, fostering trust, and providing education and advocacy, these hospitals not only enhance the quality of care but also contribute to healthier communities. As they continue to innovate and adapt to the evolving needs of the populations they serve, children's hospitals remain steadfast in their commitment to building a brighter, healthier future for all children.

Read about community health initiatives at our member hospitals.