In the Columbia Gorge region of Oregon, the Columbia Gorge Health Council (CGHC) is committed to improving health equity through innovative, community-driven solutions. One of its key initiatives, the Bridges to Health (B2H) program, aims to break down barriers to health and well-being by utilizing community-based care coordination and advanced technology.
Addressing Barriers to Care with Community Health Workers
Bridges to Health (B2H) was launched in 2014 with support from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) Transformation Grant. The program aims to develop and coordinate a regional network of Community Health Workers (CHWs) across various agencies. These frontline health advocates assist residents in Hood River and Wasco Counties by connecting them to essential services such as housing, food assistance, behavioral health support, and more.
The mission of the program is both simple and powerful:
- Remove barriers to health and well-being
- Elevate the voices of patients and providers
- Foster collaboration among community partners
- Invest in initiatives that enhance health quality, access, and equity.
The Role of Technology in Strengthening Care Coordination
To maximize its impact, B2H turned to Activate Care’s CareLink platform—an innovative solution that enables CHWs to document and coordinate client care efficiently. By centralizing data and streamlining communication across various partner organizations, CareLink ensures that no individual falls through the cracks.
This technology-driven approach allows B2H to:
✅ Improve collaboration between CHWs and healthcare providers.
✅ Track client progress across 19 pathways of need, including housing, employment, food security, and behavioral health.
✅ Advocate for sustainable funding models, such as outcome-based payments for CHW services.
Measurable Impact: Enhancing Health and Well-Being
The results speak for themselves. According to a 2023 B2H Client Survey, more than 40% of participants reported improved quality of life, mental health, stress levels, and overall health after engaging with the program. Even more strikingly:
- 56.8% of clients reported an improved ability to care for themselves.
- 55.8% reported better management of their health conditions.
- 47.1% felt more confident in communicating with healthcare providers.
These statistically significant improvements highlight how Bridges to Health is not only addressing immediate needs but also empowering individuals with the skills and confidence to take control of their long-term health.
A Future Built on Innovation and Collaboration
The Bridges to Health program exemplifies how community health initiatives can create meaningful change by integrating care coordination, technology, and advocacy. As the program continues to expand, its success highlights the importance of sustained funding and support to ensure that health equity remains a priority for all community members.
At Activate Care, we’re proud to support organizations like B2H that redefine community health through innovative, scalable solutions.
Are you interested in learning how Activate Care can help your organization coordinate care more effectively? Contact us to discover how our technology can support your mission.
To read more about our partnership with the Columbia Gorge Health Council, click here.