Joint Commission, Leapfrog and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) have joined efforts to address health care equity in healthcare systems. St. Bernards Healthcare is proud to announce our Health Equity initiatives to address healthcare disparities within our own health system and community. 

Health Equity

Health Equity, defined by CMS, is "the attainment of the highest level of health for all people, where everyone has a fair and just opportunity to attain their optimal health regardless of race, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, socioeconomic status, preferred language and other factors that affect access to care and health outcomes."

St. Bernards screens patients for sociodemographic characteristics in order to identify healthcare disparities.

Health Equity Initiatives

• Recuperative Care Program
  • A four bed unit that is located within the Craighead County Regional Crisis Stabilization Unit. When patients are discharged from a healthcare organization or referred to the recuperative care program , it gives those without a home a place to stay for 90 days and resources such as transportation, support in finding a permanent living place, employment opportunities, insurance connections and more. The program continues to follow these patients one year after the program.
• Salvation Army Monthly Meals & Screenings
• Angel Backpack Program
  • Provides non-perishable food to those who screen positive for food insecurity
• Shelter Assistance 
  • For individuals who a fixed shelter cannot be located, a tent is provided. 
• Infant & Maternal Health
  • Pregnancy Clinic
    • Mothers are screened for Health Related Social Needs (HRSNs) at the pregnancy clinic or the hospital, and a social worker refers them to resources as needed.
• Community Wellness Screenings
  • Free monthly community wellness screenings that include BMI screening, blood pressure and blood work panel
  • Specialty screening months, such as Women's Health Day, Men's Health Day and Heart Day. These events include additional free screenings and resources.