The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced the formation of 11 Regional Health Advisory Councils designed to help combat health disparities in rural and urban areas across the state. The Council will provide a network of trusted community partners that will help improve structural gaps in current and emerging health emergencies including policy, practice and data-related resource flows.
“I am proud of the proactive measures we are taking to make health care more accessible to all Michiganders, especially those we know have been affected by COVID-19,” said Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist. “We know that work to address continuing racial disparities and the creation of a Regional Health Advisory Council will bring together federal, state and local public health organizations to meaningfully address disparities related to COVID-19 by strengthening local community organizations that serve populations this.”
This spring, a Request for Application was sent to the organization to oversee the council in 14 identified regional areas to function as a backbone organization (BBO) to support the formation of each council. Of the 14 regions identified, 11 Regional Health Equity Councils will be established, made up of community organizations that serve populations disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. BBOs are expected to begin serving their respective areas in August. The council is funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Centers for State, Tribal, Local, and Territorial Assistance. Councils will be established in the following areas:
The BBO will support the Regional Health Equity Council to achieve five main goals:
“It’s critical that we do everything possible at MDHHS to combat disparities,” said Elizabeth Hertel, director of MDHHS. “By partnering with community leaders, tribal governments, local government officials and others at the grassroots of affected communities we can better understand and serve affected populations. All of these efforts make Michigan a better and fairer place.”
The grant began to be distributed in July and the funded activities will end by May 31, 2023.
