Award: Corporate Achievements in Health Care
In the event of a heart attack, every second counts. That’s why Sentara’s Healthy Equity Team provided 165 defibrillators and training to community partners throughout Virginia and Northeast North Carolina.
The swift application of CPR or an automated external defibrillator while waiting for emergency medical services to arrive can mean the difference between life and death, according to the nomination. So, Sentara invested nearly $250,000 and partnered with local organizations and faith leaders in Hampton Roads and northeastern North Carolina to distribute AEDs and provide life-saving education. Community leaders can then effectively respond to cardiac emergencies during worship services or public events.
The Rev. Keith Jones, pastor of Shiloh Baptist Church in Norfolk, used his church’s space to train nine other church groups in using the device after receiving it. The units cost $1,500 each and were paid for by the Sentara Foundation’s Heart Fund.
Iris Lundy, Sentara’s vice president of health equity, shared insight into the importance of the team.
Can you describe what the Sentara Health Equity Team does? The health equity team collaborates with internal and external teams to identify and address disparities in health outcomes among different populations. We gather and analyze data to identify health disparities and their root causes. This can include demographic data, health outcomes, access to care and social drivers of health. We work with our communities to understand their needs, gather input and build relationships. We provide and support education and training within our communities and assist with program design and implementation to improve health outcomes.
What were the keys to the defibrillator program’s success? It was an identified need of the community by the community. We brought the automated electronic defibrillators and the education/training to a central location that was convenient for the community. We provided opportunities for hands-on experience in a safe and controlled environment to build confidence and competence.
How do you/the team cope with challenges in community health? Listening to our community is critical. So, we listen to understand and validate that we’ve heard and understand correctly. Then, we work together to address them. There are times when something identified can be better handled with another organization. We make connections at that time with other community resources.
What lessons has the team learned? We must first listen to our community to truly understand what is important to them and work together to design and implement solutions. Building relationships takes time and commitment. We must show up often and authentically.
Any advice for those pursuing community health partnerships? Visit the organization you want to partner with. Attend their events to learn more about them and see how you can partner. Seek to fill their need first and be committed to stay in the community long-term to make a true impact.
