For Anita Burrows, a longtime resident of Washington, D.C.’s Ward 8, managing her chronic conditions was a constant struggle. After experiencing pre-eclampsia during her last pregnancy, Anita’s doctor at Community of Hope connected her with Ashley Keen, a dedicated Community Health Worker here at Community of Hope, to help her take control of her health. Now, two years later, Anita credits Ashley’s guidance and support with helping her stay on top of her medications and manage her blood pressure.
“I saw my community health worker once a week, and we talk often on the phone. She’s always available when I need her, and she listens to me before we come up with a plan together. It’s been amazing,” Anita shares. “She’s like my big sister, always reminding me to take care of myself.”
Anita’s story is just one example of how Community of Hope, with the help of community health workers like Ashley, is transforming the lives of patients with chronic conditions.
“Having a community health worker has been a game changer for me,” Anita explains. “Ashley doesn’t just give me advice; she listens, checks in regularly, and helps me stay on top of everything. The whole team at Community of Hope makes me feel like I’m part of a family.”
Thanks to the new partnership with the United Health Foundation, Community of Hope is expanding its chronic disease management program, providing patients in Wards 7 and 8 with the support they need to thrive. For Community of Hope, we are focused on improving health and eliminating health inequities. It’s than just treating chronic conditions—it’s about addressing the broader health disparities that exist in Washington, DC. According to the 2023 America’s Health Rankings report, the city has some of the highest rates of chronic disease in the nation, particularly in Wards 7 and 8, where predominantly Black residents face higher rates of hypertension, heart disease, and diabetes. We believe we can address those high rates.
Expanding our chronic disease care model will help us improve health by offering community health workers to patients with diabetes as well, double our nutrition supports, reduce preventable hospitalizations through better care coordination and patient engagement.
For Anita, the care she receives here goes beyond medical treatment—it’s a support system she can rely on. “In Ward 8, we often feel forgotten, but Community of Hope constantly reminds us that they’re here for us. I’m so grateful for everything they’ve done.”
Thanks to the partnership with the United Health Foundation, Community of Hope will continue to make a difference in the lives of patients like Anita, providing the resources and care needed to help them lead healthier, fuller lives!
