Healthy lives start with healthy communities

When our neighbors are healthy and have access to the care, programs and resources they need to be well, we all win. At Spectrum Health, we are committed to ensuring that everyone – no matter their age, race or zip code, has the support they need to live their best life.

Healthier Communities does just that. Our team of dedicated and passionate community health workers, nurses, doctors and leaders “stand in the gap” to meet people wherever they may be to get them the answers, services and support they need.

Learn more about our programs that are:

• Ensuring Black and Latino mothers and babies have every opportunity for a healthy start
• Keeping kids in school and fostering participation and engagement in class
• Connecting our non-English speaking neighbors with whatever programs and support they need
• Making sure every community has the fundamental rights that support good health – quality education, affordable housing, safe parks and so much more
• Investing in community programs and partnerships that deliver the support, education and services our neighbors need
• Empowering, educating and advocating for patients with chronic diseases so that they have the confidence to find their own voice with their providers

Mission Fit Statement

The mission of Spectrum Health is to improve health, inspire hope, and save lives. To fulfill this mission Healthier Communities focuses on reaching the highest level of health equity possible with the people, neighborhoods and regions we serve

What is health equity?

Health is defined as the “state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease and infirmity.” Health equity is the absence of avoidable, unfair, or remediable differences among groups of people, whether those groups are defined socially, economically, demographically, geographically or by other means. Health equity implies that everyone should have a fair opportunity to attain their full health potential and that no one should be disadvantaged from achieving this potential. Total health in a community cannot be present where health inequities exist.

What are our strategies?

• Reduce infant mortality
• Advance family economic security as a means to improve health
• Improve community wellness and reduce chronic disease

The most recent data shows Kent County’s infant mortality rate for Black babies has dropped to 9.7 - still higher than 4.4 for white babies. Our efforts won’t stop until it’s a strong beginning for every mother and every baby.