Health Initiatives

Oregon Community Health Initiatives

Providence has been at the forefront of advancing community health by improving healthcare access and addressing health disparities. Our engaged investing approach utilizes strategic partnerships, data-driven solutions, and community-focused models. Through this approach, Providence aims to create positive change in our communities.

Data for Change Initiative

Data for Change was launched in 2021 by Providence Community Health and Providence Center for Outcomes Research and Education (CORE) to improve data capabilities for Providence community benefit grantees. Since the start of the initiative, CORE has offered 793 hours of support through mentoring, shared learning opportunities, and an annual Data Summit. In 2024, Data for Change received the Portland Business Journal’s Innovations in Philanthropy award for its community impact.

Building Community through Collective Impact

This funding partnership fostered collaboration across sectors, launching 130+ programs, creating over 65 jobs, training over 100 Community Health Workers, and securing $36 million in funding. In 2024, this approach was replicated in the north coast community through Providence Seaside Hospital, focusing on community asset cataloguing and fostering trust and collaboration among partners. Since October 2024, more than 25 applications have been submitted, resulting in over $7.2 million being secured and actively building a culture of collaboration. Issues addressed include substance use disorder services, workforce development, early learning, mental/behavioral health, and health equity.

Health Systems Access to Care Fund (HSACF)

Founded by Providence alongside Kaiser Permanente NW, Legacy Health, and PeaceHealth, the HSACF funds community-supported clinics in Oregon and Southwest Washington. These funds enhance clinics' infrastructure and capacity in response to healthcare reforms, Medicaid transformations, and safety net pressures. In 2024 the community of practice collectively provided over 26,500 patient visits.

Medication Assistance Program

The Medication Assistance Program (MAP) is a vital service designed to ease the financial burden and stress of accessing essential medications. This includes life-saving prescription and costly infusion treatments crucial for preventing and managing diseases. By enhancing medication access, MAP not only significantly improves patient well-being but also helps reduce the health system expenses on uncompensated care.

Serving the entire Providence Oregon region, MAP accepts patient referrals from healthcare providers, clinic staff, and financial counselors. To qualify, patients must complete applications and meet specific income criteria. Through MAP, countless patients gain the support they need to maintain their health without the overwhelming costs.