Established in 2019, the Office of Community Health Work simplifies complex care by supporting programs that improve access, foster self-sufficiency and promote healing across central and southern Illinois. Through motivational interviewing, harm reduction and trauma-informed care, we offer services that reduce isolation and build trust within communities. Our work includes community health worker services, trauma-informed care training and medical student hotspotting experiences. We also partner with hospitals, clinics, police departments, courts and schools to decelop population health-focused initiatives.
Our team brings together health workers, nurses, health educators, licensed clinical social workers and other professionals working collaboratively to deliver compassionate care.
Through SIU Medicine’s community health programs, individuals and families in Springfield and beyond receive personalized support for chronic disease management, mental health, maternal health and environmental education. Led in part by community health workers, these programs connect people with needed resources while strengthening the health and resilience of neighborhoods across the region.
