Housing and Health: The Stability Connection
Stable housing is healthcare. Without it, managing health is nearly impossible. How Housing Affects Health: Unstable housing = chronic stress = illness Homelessness = exposure to violence, weather, substance use Poor quality housing = asthma, lead poisoning, injuries Unaffordable housing = skipping medications to pay rent Housing Assistance Resources: Miami-Dade Public Housing Authority Emergency rental […]
Vaccine Education: Flu, COVID, and Community Immunity
Fall means flu season. Vaccines protect you and your community. Why Vaccinate: Personal protection from serious illness Community immunity protects vulnerable populations Reduces healthcare system burden Flu Vaccine: Everyone 6 months+ should get annual flu shot. COVID Vaccine: Updated boosters recommended for everyone 6 months+. Where to Get Vaccinated: Pharmacies, health departments, community health centers—most […]
Policy Advocacy: Five Health’s Role in Systems Change
Service provision treats symptoms. Policy change addresses root causes. Our Advocacy Priorities: Medicaid expansion in Florida CHW certification and reimbursement Affordable housing investment School-based health centers Harm reduction policy Our Approach: Community-led advocacy, data-driven messaging, coalition building. Recent Wins: Miami-Dade County allocated $2M for community health infrastructure; Florida expanded Medicaid CHW reimbursement. Support advocacy work […]
Breast Health: Screening and Early Detection
October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Early detection saves lives. Who Needs Screening: Women 40+: Annual mammograms Women 20-39: Clinical breast exams every 3 years Higher risk individuals: Earlier/more frequent screening Know Your Risk: Family history, genetic factors (BRCA), dense breast tissue, reproductive history. Free/Low-Cost Mammograms: Every Woman Counts (Florida program), community health centers, mobile […]
Community Voice: How We Listen and Adapt
Community health organizations often talk about being “community-driven.” Five Health is working to actually be it. This post describes how we center community voice in decision-making. The Problem with Traditional Models Many nonprofits serving communities are led by people who don’t live in those communities. Boards are filled with donors and professionals, not residents. Programs […]
Chronic Disease Management: Living Well with Diabetes
More than 37 million Americans have diabetes. In Miami-Dade County, diabetes rates are higher than the national average, especially in Black and Latinx communities. Diabetes is serious, but it’s manageable. With the right support, people with diabetes live long, healthy lives. Understanding Diabetes Type 1 Diabetes: Your body doesn’t produce insulin. Usually diagnosed in children […]
Innovative Funding Models for Community Health
Community health organizations face persistent funding challenges: short grant cycles, restricted funding, and reliance on philanthropy that can disappear. Five Health is piloting innovative funding models that create sustainability while maintaining our mission. This post shares what we’re learning. The Traditional Funding Problem Most community health organizations depend heavily on: Foundation grants (typically 1-3 years, […]
Recovery Resources: Supporting Those in Need
Healthcare doesn’t always require an in-person visit. Telehealth—virtual doctor appointments via video or phone—makes care more convenient and accessible. Five Health is expanding telehealth options for our community. What Is Telehealth? Telehealth lets you see a doctor or nurse from home using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. You discuss symptoms, get medical advice, and sometimes […]
Telehealth Expansion: Digital Access to Care
Healthcare doesn’t always require an in-person visit. Telehealth—virtual doctor appointments via video or phone—makes care more convenient and accessible. Five Health is expanding telehealth options for our community. What Is Telehealth? Telehealth lets you see a doctor or nurse from home using a smartphone, tablet, or computer. You discuss symptoms, get medical advice, and sometimes […]
Emergency Preparedness: Hurricane Season Health Tips
Hurricane season runs through November. Being prepared protects your health and safety. Before the Storm Medications: Refill prescriptions now so you have at least a 7-day supply Keep medications in waterproof containers Have a list of all medications, doses, and prescribing doctors Medical Equipment: If you use oxygen, dialysis, or other life-sustaining equipment, register with […]