My first month of service at the Legal Council for Health Justice has shown me how the nature of public health is one of connection and collaboration. In my studies, and our Pre-Service Orientation, I have been exposed to the theories of social determinants of health and the many interrelated, connected social factors that affect one's health status. During the last few weeks, my (admittedly brief) time at the Council has exposed me to the nature of successful public health interventions--involving deliberate, effective connection and collaboration.
The work of the Legal Council for Health Justice relies upon collaboration. The organization works with several clinics throughout Chicago in'legal clinics," where individuals receiving treatment for their health needs can get help resolving their legal needs. If the Council cannot resolve their needs, we can refer them to other agencies for help. In September, the Legal Council for Health Justice worked with attorneys from other organizations to win a class action lawsuit against the State of Illinois in regards to the role of the state in providing in-home care to ill children.
As the Medicaid Managed Care Outreach Coordinator, I speak to clinics and other organizations about the changes to Medicaid in the State of Illinois. In this role, I have become acutely aware of the personal and organizational connections necessary to implement successful public health interventions. This sharing of knowledge and resources allows individuals to specialize and provide higher quality work in their respective fields. By tapping into connections and collaborations throughout the health field, separate organizations are better able to achieve shared goals.
Throughout my service term, I look forward to observing and enacting successful organizational collaborations. Through discussion with the rest of the Corps members, I am excited to learn of more connections throughout the world of public health.
This blog post was written by NHC Chicago 2016-17 member Nate Muckley.
My first month of service at the Legal Council for Health Justice has shown me how the nature of public health is one of connection and collaboration. In my studies, and our Pre-Service Orientation, I have been exposed to the theories of social determinants of health and the many interrelated, connected social factors that affect one's health status. During the last few weeks, my (admittedly brief) time at the Council has exposed me to the nature of successful public health interventions--involving deliberate, effective connection and collaboration.