This year, National Public Health Week takes place from April 1 to April 7. It’s intended to remind us of the importance of public health and the power of teamwork to improve health outcomes. Public health describes the activities carried out by communities, governments, and organizations to promote good health for the whole population. At Montefiore, one of the largest healthcare institutions in the city, public health takes center stage.

 

Public health programs are particularly important in The Bronx, a vibrant borough that faces unique health challenges. Let’s celebrate our achievements and learn about the ways Montefiore is working to improve the health of Bronxites.

 

Access to Healthcare Services

 

Access to quality healthcare is a big concern for many in the borough. Limited access can worsen existing health disparities like the high rates of obesity, heart disease, asthma, and depression. Expanding healthcare services so that all residents have fair access is essential.

 

One area we are particularly focused on is mental health. Mental health services can include inpatient treatment programs, virtual or in-person appointments with mental health professionals, support groups, medication, and resources to help improve living conditions, stress, sleep, nutrition, and physical activity. Improving mental health leads to better outcomes in our overall health, behaviors, relationships, and life expectancy.

 

Social Determinants of Health

Social determinants of health are non-medical factors that influence a person’s health. They include the conditions in which people are born, grow, work, live, and age, as well as the wider set of forces and systems that shape living conditions.

 

At the Montefiore Community Health Worker Institute, Montefiore professionals work in outpatient settings to link patients to resources that can strengthen patients’ social determinants of health. These can include financial benefits, food, housing, legal services, childcare, recreational programs and more.

 

Community Health Education

Providing education about relevant health topics improves public health. Montefiore provides health education in The Bronx through health fairs, screening events, educational classes, unique programming and research, and traditional medical appointments.

 

Montefiore’s Office of Community & Population Health hosts workshops and seminars throughout the community, addressing popular topics like healthy eating, exercise, mental health, asthma, cancer, elder health, and more. For more information about these programs, contact our community health specialist, Carlos Tejeda, at ctejeda@montefiore.org.

 

Health and the Environment

 

The environment plays a significant role in public health. Clean and safe living spaces are essential for the well-being of Bronx residents. Urban planning projects and environmental policies contribute to creating healthier environments. You can get involved by volunteering at local parks and community gardens or becoming part of your local community board.

 

National Public Health Week is a great time to recognize all the ways we can work together to create healthier lives. By improving access to physical and mental health care, and providing health education, we can build a healthier and more resilient Bronx.

 

Raisha Hernandez is manager of health equity programs at Montefiore Health System.