Empowering Health Navigators and Communities

Authors: Jimmy Reyes, Trina Radske-Suchan, Allison Moses, Shawn McClain, Julia Chevan

In Iowa, growing immigrant communities have highlighted health gaps, especially in rural and underserved areas. To address this, local residents were trained as community health navigators to offer health education and screenings in culturally appropriate ways. So far, over 35 navigators have reached more than 1,200 people in places like churches, mosques, and housing complexes. Working with a statewide care hub, the program shows how community partnerships can help break down barriers to healthcare.