Empowering Communities through Health and Social Services: An Interview with Kathleen Noonan of the Camden Coalition
Hello and welcome! I’m Katrina Pratt Roebuck, founder and CEO of Uplifme, a national resource hub that provides information on social service events happening across the country that address social determinants of health. We also highlight the great work of organizations in and around Philadelphia. Today, I have the pleasure of speaking with Kathleen Noonan, President and CEO of the Camden Coalition. Kathleen, thank you so much for joining us today!
The Camden Coalition: Addressing Complex Social and Health Needs
The Camden Coalition, founded over 20 years ago by a community-focused doctor and social worker, began with a mission to help people in Camden with complex social and medical needs. Kathleen shares how the Coalition initially brought together a team of nurses, social workers, and community health workers to assist patients after hospital discharge, ensuring they received the necessary services to prevent frequent readmissions.
Over time, the Coalition has evolved into a broader network of hospitals, human services organizations, and Camden residents. It now works across a five-county area in South Jersey, focusing on improving collaboration among these groups to ensure better outcomes for residents.
Bridging Gaps in Healthcare through Collaboration and Innovation
The Coalition is dedicated to being a connector and innovator in healthcare and social services. They don’t just provide direct care but also develop programs that fill gaps in existing services. For example, Kathleen mentions their work in connecting pregnant women who visit emergency departments with necessary prenatal care, demonstrating their proactive approach in community health.
Another innovative initiative by the Camden Coalition is their use of a Health Information Exchange. This system allows them to share data among hospitals to identify patients who frequently use emergency services but lack follow-up care, especially for mental health issues. The Coalition then reaches out to these patients to connect them with appropriate services, preventing further crises and improving overall health outcomes.
Fostering a Supportive Workplace for Community Health Workers
Kathleen highlights the Coalition’s commitment to being a responsible employer and community partner. The organization has implemented policies such as a minimum salary of $55,000, mental health support benefits, and education stipends for staff. This commitment to supporting their workforce ensures that employees can focus on providing the best care and services to the community without the stress of financial insecurity.
Expanding Impact through Medicaid and Housing Initiatives
Looking ahead, Kathleen shares the Coalition’s excitement about partnering with New Jersey’s Medicaid program to support housing-related services. Housing is a significant determinant of health, and this initiative will help address one of the primary needs expressed by the community.
How You Can Support the Camden Coalition
The Camden Coalition thrives on collaboration and community involvement. Kathleen encourages everyone to consider adopting livable wage policies within their organizations, as it aligns with the Coalition’s values. For those interested in supporting their work, you can donate through their website, CamdenHealth.org. Additionally, the Coalition offers opportunities for community involvement, such as becoming a Community Ambassador or joining their Community Advisory Committee.
Final Thoughts
The Camden Coalition exemplifies how strategic partnerships and a focus on social determinants of health can lead to better outcomes for communities. Their innovative approaches and commitment to equity make them a model for other organizations looking to make a real impact. Thank you, Kathleen, for sharing your insights and the incredible work of the Camden Coalition!
For more information on how to support or get involved with the Camden Coalition, visit CamdenHealth.org.
Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations with leaders making a difference in their communities!
