Sangamon Sun

Now in its tenth year, the Access to Health program addresses unmet healthcare needs in Sangamon County. Created in response to a local Community Health Needs Assessment, the program identifies unmanaged chronic conditions and limited access to care as pressing issues.

Springfield Memorial Hospital and SIU School of Medicine developed the initiative to engage community-based health workers in addressing these challenges. These workers live within the community, engaging directly with residents to connect them to essential services. The program focuses on improving food security, housing stability, financial well-being, and access to preventive and disease management healthcare. Ultimately, the program's goal is to help individuals become more self-sufficient.

The impact of the program is evident through various success stories. In a neighborhood lacking summer activities for children, the initiative led to the creation of youth camps. In another community, where 85% of residents are renters experiencing high turnover, collaboration with the neighborhood association prompted the development of a community garden and meeting space. This space now provides an area for children to play and for community members to gather.

The program receives joint funding from HSHS St. John’s Hospital and Springfield Memorial Hospital, both contributing $500,000 over a period of three years. Since its inception, HSHS St. John’s Hospital has contributed a total of $750,000, offering an annual support of $88,000 to ensure the continuity and success of the initiative.

One client benefits from the program by receiving essential assistance. "Tanya helps me with food and bus tokens to get to my appointments and to any important things to be done monthly. She is a great help to me. I really appreciate her.”