Our Policy Center

CHC: Creating Healthier Communities is a nonprofit, nonpartisan voice dedicated to improving the health of communities across the United States. By serving as a catalyst for good health and well-being, we accelerate positive change among our corporate, nonprofit, and community partners. At CHC, we envision a world where every person in every community has an opportunity to live their healthiest life.

Where We Stand

At CHC, we are committed to advancing policies that foster healthier communities by addressing barriers to well-being. Our policy positions reflect our core belief that every person, regardless of background or zip code, should have access to the resources and opportunities needed to achieve their best health and longevity. Among our priorities are the following:

  • Protect Medicaid from Cuts: Medicaid is a lifeline for millions of individuals and families, ensuring access to essential healthcare services. CHC strongly opposes any efforts to cut Medicaid funding or restrict eligibility, as these measures would disproportionately harm vulnerable communities, increase health disparities, and strain our healthcare system. We advocate for policies that strengthen and expand Medicaid to support better health outcomes for all.

  • Invest in Birth Workers to Improve Maternal Health: The U.S. faces a maternal health crisis, particularly among communities who experience disproportionately high rates of maternal mortality. CHC supports policies that provide funding for community-based birth workers—including doulas and midwives—who play a critical role in improving maternal health outcomes. Expanding access to these services can lead to healthier pregnancies, safer births, and stronger families.

  • Expand Access to Mental Health Services: CHC supports policies that increase funding for community-based mental health programs, integrate mental health into primary care, and strengthen substance use disorder prevention and recovery efforts. By expanding access to care and addressing social determinants of mental health, we can build healthier communities where everyone has the support they need to thrive.

Our Actions

CHC takes an active role in advocating for policies that support community health and well-being: writing and signing letters advocating for healthcare access; thought leadership in public forums; and sharing the stories of those most impacted by shifts in health policy. We invite you to join us in our mission.

View more of our Medicaid Diaries.

Our Expertise

Dr. Jean Accius and Valerie Rochester bring decades of expertise in health equity, policy innovation, and community-centered solutions—Jean as a visionary leader in health systems transformation and Valerie as a dedicated public health strategist committed to advancing equity and justice in underserved communities.

Creating Healthier Communities

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For nearly 70 years, CHC has been creating healthier communities. Learn more about our leadership.