The Community Stakeholder Meeting held on October 17, 2024, by Cardinal Care, Virginia's Medicaid Program, focused on enhancing healthcare access for the Hispanic community through collaborative initiatives. The meeting featured a presentation from La Casa del Salud, a prominent organization dedicated to improving health outcomes for this demographic.

Dr. [Name], a physician from Colombia and representative of La Casa del Salud, outlined the organization's mission to promote health and well-being among Hispanics in Virginia. Since its inception in 2014, La Casa del Salud has expanded its community health worker program from four to thirty certified workers, making it the largest of its kind in the state. The organization aims to address critical health needs identified in a 2013 assessment, including language support, health navigation, and preventive services.

Key focus areas discussed included providing health education, case management, and cultural competency training for healthcare providers. La Casa del Salud utilizes various communication channels, such as social media, radio programs, and WhatsApp groups, to disseminate vital health information and resources to the community. The organization also trains "influential messengers" from within the community to help connect individuals with necessary services.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by the Latino community, particularly regarding health insurance enrollment and access to Medicaid. Dr. [Name] emphasized the importance of collaboration among local organizations, churches, and community leaders to effectively address these issues and improve healthcare access.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical role of community engagement and partnership in enhancing health services for the Hispanic population in Virginia. The collaborative efforts of organizations like La Casa del Salud are essential in overcoming barriers to healthcare access and ensuring that the needs of this community are met.