Wednesday, April 2, 2025
4/2/2025
Strengthening Public Health Systems and Services in the Yukon-kuskokwim Delta - The Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation (YKHC) seeks to utilize grant funding to improve healthcare and public health in the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, a region facing significant health and economic disparities in Southwestern Alaska. YKHC is a Tribal non-profit organization authorized by 58 federally recognized Tribes to provide health services on behalf of the federal Indian Health Service (IHS), YKHC proposes to enhance its existing public health infrastructure, programs, and services through this grant opportunity. The project aligns with the YKHC's vision, "through Native self-determination and culturally relevant health systems, we strive to be the healthiest people." Through YKHC’s culturally sensitive approach and longstanding trust with the community, YKHC aims to better address social determinants of health, improve health outcomes, and reduce health disparities in the region. YKHC's healthcare delivery system includes community clinics, sub-regional clinics, a regional hospital, and a range of services, putting it in a unique position to deliver this project. The project intends to expand YKHC's capabilities to respond to emerging public health threats and chronic diseases in the region by implementing targeted health promotion initiatives and strengthening preventive measures. The grant funding will also support the building of strategic partnerships with federal, state, and local health organizations to facilitate a more integrated public health approach. Short-term outcomes include improved capacity to implement and evaluate public health programs and services, addressing prioritized public health activities in Alaska Native communities. Intermediate outcomes include improved public health organizational and system capacity and increased availability of public health programs and resources. In the long term, the project seeks to enhance public health outcomes and reduce health inequities. The approach includes enhancing foundational public health capabilities and implementing public health programs and services. It focuses on strengthening YKHC's ability to conduct assessments and surveillance, develop evidence-based policy, communicate health issues and plans, and support strategic partnerships. The project also seeks to improve healthcare service capacity, support prevention and wellness programs, and promote the adoption of evidence-based initiatives. Evaluation will primarily be conducted by the Population Health Management team and the Public Health Epidemiologist within the Department of Public Health, utilizing various data sources such as electronic patient health records, staff schedules, and customer surveys. An epidemiologist will be hired to manage the program and lead data gathering and evaluation efforts, collaborating closely with other departments within the organization.
HHS’ Tracking Accountability in Government Grants System (TAGGS) website provides access to detailed descriptions of grants, loans, aggregated direct payments and other types of financial assistance awarded by the HHS Operating Divisions (OPDIVs) and the Office of the Secretary Staff Divisions (STAFFDIVs).