Vitalyst Health Foundation

Programs: Vitalyst's grantmaking and health systems collaboration work is focused on efforts to improve quality of care and population health while lowering health care. For example, vitalyst has played a key collaborative role in community paramedicine (the proactive,lower cost utilization of fire district resources to help "frequent flyer" 911-transport patients)and the continued development of community health workers(neighborhood-based patient advocates and navigators who help reduce improper health system use and promote healthy living)as a cost-effective health profession. The innovation grants grant process is designed to identify opportunities and award monies for unique services and systemic policy change that address the conditions/determinants that enable arizonans to be healthy and resilient.

vitalyst's health policy work includes conducting relevant and timely research; providing balanced, non-partisan information on health issues in arizona; and serving as a neutral convener to encourage dialogue and translate ideas in action. This has manifested itself most clearly with more than 80 publications, and in vitalyst's development and support for the cover az coalition. The coalition of over 600 membersfocuses on helping arizonans gain health insurance coverage through the children's health insurance program, medicaid and the health insurance marketplace. Vitalyst supports enrollment assistance, public awareness and community outreach for this statewide effort. It is also engaged in a statewide analysis of the healthcare workforce to determine current levels and projected demand.

vitalyst engages with partner organizations and with cities and towns to improve the conditions for health and well-being. Advocacy, community engagement and direct investments have been focused on efforts such as complete streets, transit-oriented development, access to healthy foods, and access to parks and recreation.

vitalyst's direct technical assistance efforts are focused on strengthening the capacity of small-to mid-size nonprofit agencies and developing alliances to achieve their health improvement goals. Through its change agent network, vitalyst specifically provides consultants and community leaders with the tools, strategies and opportunities to positively impact community health.