PHP supports community health worker development

In recognition of the critical role that community health workers play in improving health and access to care in New Mexico, Presbyterian Health Plan is investing in community-based organizations that support their training and development.

Community health workers (CHWs), as well as related roles of community health representatives and promotoras, are informed guides and health equity advocates who provide a bridge between clinical care and social resources. They link patients and members to essential community resources that address social drivers of health such as housing and food insecurity. Earlier this year, New Mexico recognized their critical role by allowing CHWs to be reimbursed for providing services to Medicaid members.

A $100,000 investment from PHP has been distributed equally across eight partner organizations committed to supporting CHW development in areas such as training, Medicaid billing and software and equipment costs. Presbyterian Community Health is facilitating a community of practice with grantees to share best practices to increase access to care for Medicaid members.

Leveraging partnerships created by Presbyterian Community Health teams, PHP is providing funding to:

• Empowerment Congress provides health and civic outreach and education to Colonia community members in Dona Ana County.,

• La Semilla Food Center provides a culturally rooted produce prescription program and public health benefits application assistance to communities in southern New Mexico.

• Las Cumbres Community Services provides case management and navigation services across multiple programs in the Española Valley to primarily Medicaid eligible individuals.

• Mesilla Valley Community of Hope provides clients in Doña Ana County with housing navigation, tenancy support, transportation, and help with food security, behavioral health and medical appointment referrals.

• Non-Metro Area Agency on Aging oversees comprehensive community and home-based services to seniors in 32 of New Mexico’s 33 counties, helping them to maintain independence and dignity.

• Picuris Pueblo, in Taos County, currently uses CHWs to provide preventative health services to prevent disease, disability and other health conditions.

• Rio Grande ATP provides substance abuse treatment, behavioral health services, and supportive services to clients at its locations in Taos, Las Vegas and Raton.

• ROAMS establishes, maintains, and coordinates obstetric telehealth services for rural perinatal mothers in northeastern New Mexico, providing virtual access to obstetric practitioners and Maternal Fetal Medicine high risk providers.

“These community-based organizations are established, trusted partners,” said Megan Moore, vice president of Population Health and Quality Strategy at PHP. “They listen to their communities and provide for location-specific needs within their areas of the state, empowering New Mexicans to achieve their best health. That directly aligns with Presbyterian’s purpose and we’re proud to support their important work.”

Recipient organizations were selected based on their needs and readiness related to CHW workforce development and Medicaid patient support.