From Ideas to Impact
The Vital Role of Innovation in Health Care
SAMANTHA CART
The phrase innovation in health care draws the mind naturally toward new medical devices , drugs and treatments . However , it can also take the form of creatively addressing social determinants of health , practicing preventative medicine , improving efficiency and eliminating human error . In the Mountain State , talented professionals are facing the challenges of the medical field head on and creating unique solutions , making Almost Heaven an even better place to live a long , happy and healthy life .
Catholic Charities , the largest nonprofit social services agency in West Virginia , serves more than 25,000 individuals each year through programs focused on alleviating the effects of poverty . While physical health is of the utmost importance , the organization also focuses on how economic stability , access to education and health care services and the safety and support of the communities it serves affect health outcomes .
“ We believe health care must be collaborative to work and that it doesn ’ t stop outside the doors to the hospital ,” says Mark Phillips , president and CEO of Catholic Charities West Virginia .
This approach led to the creation of the Hospital Transition Program ( HTP ), which supports patients during their transition from the hospital to home .
“ Our HTP case managers meet with patients before discharge to really understand the situation at a patient ’ s home ,” Phillips explains . “ So many of the patients we see are going back to homes with low food security or are behind with expenses . If we can meet some of those immediate needs , the patient has an easier time thinking about their long-term health and well-being .”
Much of the work Catholic Charities does is relational , including connecting patients with local resources for ongoing support , transportation , utility assistance and food / nutritional support . According to Phillips , this only works by first developing trust with patients .
“ Chances are patients have met dozens of doctors , nurses and social workers in their time at the hospital , so it can be a challenge to build an authentic rapport ,” he says . “ It requires a lot of time and a case manager that authentically wants to help . Our case managers also need to be up to date on community resources , so if there ’ s
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