Community Health Councils
Sampling of Accomplishments
Created new programs and services:
Planned and developed a “one-stop-shopping” health commons facility that includes health and dental clinics, WIC program, Public Health offices, and community health promotion programs
Led the establishment of new school-based health care centers for children and teens
Sponsored community screenings for diabetes, blood pressure, hearing, vision, child development issues, lipid panels
Led the establishment of a new women’s health diagnostic center
Coordinated community services:
Spearheaded collaborative grant proposals to bring additional funding to communities
Led inter-agency collaborations to improve immunization rates
Improved mental health services by helping providers learn more about best practices
Linked schools with DWI groups and mental health providers
Established and supported community task forces to address alcohol and drug abuse, suicide prevention, teen pregnancy prevention, and health disparities
Conducted health planning and assessment:
Developed 37 Community Health Profiles with data used continuously in health planning, funding proposals, and developing local and state health policies
Developed 37 Community Health Plans to address urgent health problems and priorities
Mapped and monitored changes in health funding, in order to fill gaps and improve services
Conducted community research projects, including a rural methamphetamine assessment
Organized community mobilizations for possible flue pandemics and community disasters
Organized community education programs:
Published bilingual resource directories
Provided training on health issues to several thousand people
Developed a community health library
Educated agencies and the public about early childhood mental health and healthy parenting
Conducted town hall meetings and education programs on reducing underage drinking
Organizing a symposium on sexual assault
Sponsored classes in diabetes self-care, smoking cessation, parenting skills, and other areas
Implemented a family violence and the workplace train-the-trainer program with local businesses
Organized community conferences
Facilitated car seat installation training
Conducted community health fairs in counties and tribal communities throughout New Mexico
Led community advocacy initiatives:
Advocated for additional primary care, dental care, and mental health services in underserved areas
Worked to establish and strengthen county indigent funds to help pay for health care services for people who can’t afford them
Worked to establish new rural public transportation programs
Advised county commissions on important health policies and funding allocations
Provided forums for considering proposed health insurance coverage initiatives