Penn State Health and Penn State College of Medicine Unveil First Community Benefit Report
Penn State Health and Penn State College of Medicine have released their first Community Benefit Report, titled “Healthy Communities, Healthy Futures,” highlighting the positive impact of their efforts to improve mental health, health equity, and Wellness/disease prevention in central Pennsylvania. The report underscores their commitment to addressing the growing healthcare needs of the region, with a particular focus on the core counties of Berks, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, and Perry.
During fiscal year 2022, Penn State Health provided community benefits with a total value of $156,730,522. These included effective programs, compassionate charity care, unreimbursed Medicaid costs, and supplemental medical, dental, and pharmaceutical services. The health system also donated $903,559 in charitable purpose sponsorships and contributions to non-profit organizations, and provided approximately $50,000 in community grants.
“We partner with schools, churches, shelters, food pantries, and other organizations to give every adult and child the best opportunity to live healthy lives,” said Steve Massini, Penn State Health CEO.
The report also highlights the impact of more than 30 community health programs spearheaded by Penn State Health and College of Medicine employees. These programs reached thousands of underserved central Pennsylvanians, including helping more than 8,400 people access healthcare, reaching more than 5,300 people through 15 community gardens managed by Penn State Health, and providing more than 900 people at community partner organizations with mental health first aid and trauma-informed care training in fiscal year 2023.
Penn State Health and the College of Medicine collaborate on a Community Health Needs Assessment every three years to guide strategies in serving the healthcare needs of area residents. The most recent assessment identified three key health issues: mental health, health equity, and wellness/disease prevention. The health system, the College of Medicine, and community partners actively address these issues through free health screenings, community gardens, and behavioral health training.
With the help of community partners, Penn State Health and the College of Medicine are working to ensure that everyone has an equal opportunity for a healthier life.
Historically, Penn State Health’s Medical Outreach Service has been serving residents in the region since 2021, reaching more than 31,000 individuals. This long-standing commitment to community health reflects the organization’s mission to improve the well-being of the people of Pennsylvania and beyond.
As Penn State Health and Penn State College of Medicine continue their efforts to advance community health, their Community Benefit Report serves as a testament to their dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of central Pennsylvania residents.
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