As our office and staff members got up and running one recent morning, an email from June Sobocinski, our Vice President of Community Impact appeared in our inboxes.
“Congratulations to our stellar Healthcare Navigator team!” it began, followed by a large gif of fireworks. “Their fine work has been recognized by the federal government with an additional grant,” June continued. Praise, thumbs up and high fives rolled in. June created one of those rare moments people don’t balk at “reply all.”
Our staff is familiar with the great work our healthcare navigators do and the amazing people they are. We rallied around them to celebrate—and wanted to spread the word. Because of this grant, we’ll continue operating Alaska’s Healthcare Navigators’ program. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded it. For this next year, we’ll receive $2 million to fund it, which is the highest award that we’ve received for health care navigation.
Last year alone, our healthcare navigators made a huge difference in the lives of people statewide. They provided health insurance information—often in-person and usually one-on-one—to more than 14,000 Alaskans. Because of their help, almost 1,200 people enrolled themselves and their families in private health insurance plans. As a result, many, many more Alaskans got access to the health care they need. Plus, our healthcare navigators also assisted 2,895 people with Medicaid enrollments. Learn more.
In the grant application, we highlighted critical components in our strategy and for our work. We go to people as opposed to waiting for them to find us. Accordingly, we have offices in medical clinics, set up appointments at health centers and attend community gatherings at libraries and festivals. We build trusted relationships within communities and at related organizations. Healthcare navigators focus on assisting many people.
Our team members are delighted to answer your questions and guide you or anyone looking to make health insurance enrollment selections. Even if you’re not near a healthcare navigator location, you can still get in touch with them by dialing 2-1-1. Our Alaska 211 community resource specialists can connect you with them for help.
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