We just received a P20 award in collaboration with (OCHIN) from the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities.

CATALYST (Community ClimATe heALth equitY reSearch cenTer) based on a new partnership between the OCHIN Practice-based Research Network and (Harvard’s Confluence Project), will generate the evidence that safety net primary care community health centers (CHCs) need to prepare for and mitigate climate-induced health impacts in marginalized, socioeconomically vulnerable CHC communities.

Communities already facing social and economic challenges are hit hardest by climate-related health issues, like asthma and hypertension. Community Health Centers (CHCs), which provide care to these underserved groups, are uniquely equipped to address these challenges. But to act effectively, CHCs need better tools and evidence to understand and respond to the health impacts of extreme weather and poor air quality.

A new initiative, the Community Catalyst Climate Health Equity Research Center (CCHRC), is stepping up to fill this gap. Here’s how:

  • Building a Strong Team and Tools: CCHRC will bring together experts in health equity, climate science, and primary care to create a powerful database. By linking health records from over 1,700 CHC clinics with climate data on heat and air quality, researchers can study how these factors worsen health issues like asthma and hypertension.

  • Researching Solutions: Using this data, the team will uncover the most significant climate-related health risks and identify who is most vulnerable. This will help CHCs tailor interventions to their specific populations.

  • Listening to Communities: CCHRC will work closely with CHC leaders, staff, and patients, as well as public health and environmental organizations, to co-develop solutions. Together, they’ll identify the most promising ways to prevent and reduce climate-related health problems.

By combining cutting-edge research with community input, this initiative aims to empower CHCs to protect their patients from the growing threats of climate change. It’s a vital step toward health equity in a warming world.