United Health Foundation partners with Community of Hope

UnitedHealthGroup’s United Health Foundation recently announced a $3 million grant partnership with Community of Hope (COH) to bolster the nonprofit’s chronic disease management program.

For nearly 45 years, COH has provided health care, housing and supportive services throughout Washington, D.C. Their largest health center is located in Ward 8, a historically underserved area with some of the lowest median household incomes, the fewest health care providers and the highest number of Black residents. On average, Ward 8 residents live 15 years less than those in Ward 3.

“For underserved patients with chronic conditions, access to culturally appropriate resources and care is crucial to improving health and well-being,” said Kathlyn Wee, CEO at UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Maryland and D.C. “The United Health Foundation’s partnership with Community of Hope means more people in the District of Columbia will have access to better care coordination and services they need to manage their health in ways that best meet their needs.”

COH’s chronic disease management program includes one-on-one engagement with community health workers, nutrition consultation and education, and increased clinical engagement and coordination.

Through the Foundation’s three-year grant, the nonprofit will be able to support a larger number of patients, resulting in:

• Improved health outcomes for patients with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and asthma.
• Decreased preventable emergency room visits through better care coordination and patient engagement.
• Improve transitions of care for patients who have been hospitalized.

“Improving health outcomes for patients with complex health issues is a team effort. Thanks to our newest partner, the United Health Foundation, we can maintain and expand the team – including community health workers, nurses and nutritionists – in order to help patients thrive,” said COH’s president and CEO Kelly Sweeney McShane.

About the United Health Foundation
Through collaboration with community partners, grants and outreach efforts, the United Health Foundation works to improve our health system, build a diverse and dynamic health workforce and enhance the well-being of local communities. The United Health Foundation was established by UnitedHealth Group in 1999 as a not-for-profit, private foundation dedicated to improving health and health care. To date, the United Health Foundation has committed nearly $800 million to programs and communities around the world, including a $100 million commitment to help diversify the health workforce. To learn more, visit UnitedHealthFoundation.org.