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WellAware
When people feel that they’re seen and personally cared for by their healthcare system, their overall wellbeing improves.
The Population Health WellAware Community Health Worker program gives patients just that kind of connection by tailoring our services to meet patient goals, leading to trusting relationships with our participants.
Our Vision
Our vision is for all of our neighbors to have the opportunity to thrive by living their healthiest lives.
Community Health Worker (CHW) programs effectively address and improve healthcare outcomes for all. In our approach, WellAware Community Health Workers serve as front-line workers who live in the same communities they serve. Sharing lived experiences helps CHWs build trust with their patients.
What We Do
We see most patients during home visits. We provide personalized help to improve patient access to care through:
- Health-related transportation assistance
- Connecting to primary care
- Interactive health education
- Going along with patients to appointments
- Helping with paperwork
- Connecting to resources
We also assist by addressing various challenges, helping patients navigate the complexities of the healthcare system, and supporting them in managing their own care.
How It Helps
Being a part of WellAware leads to significant gains for patients, communities, and UVA Health. A July 2024 study showed that WellAware enrollment led to a 58% decrease in emergency room visits and 21% fewer hospital admissions for patients in the program for at least 6 months. Satisfaction surveys also show higher patient and community satisfaction and trust in the Medical Center.
WellAware achieves these gains by meeting patients where they are and teaching them how to get where they want to be. In 2023, WellAware provided 809 healthy food deliveries and hot meals, helped with transportation to 241 medical appointments, and met with patients in their homes 875 times.
One highlight of WellAware is a focus on interactive learning. Using engaging hands-on kits, CHWs teach clients about essential topics like nutrition, stress, home safety, dental care, chronic disease, sleep needs, and cancer prevention.
After completing the program, WellAware patients say they feel more confident in managing their healthcare, trust their providers more, and have a stronger sense of community through being known and cared for by UVA Health.
