We serve rural regions across Vermont and Northern New York, where health inequities are real — and addressable. We use data-driven, evidence-based practices to understand and respond to the needs of our communities.
We invest in partnerships, community engagement and sustainability to improve health and well-being for all who live, work and play here.
Community Health Improvement (CHI)
CHI is a vital part of University of Vermont Health's dedication to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Its programs and initiatives improve access to care and establish the organization as an anchor institution. Its goals are to:
- Amplify Community Voices: CHI ensures that the community's needs and perspectives are heard, fostering culturally respectful and equitable practices.
- Support Non-Profit Status: CHI helps maintain the organization's non-profit status by carrying out Community Benefit programs, activities and investments that address local community health needs.
- Work Collaboratively: CHI works with community members, leaders, non-profits, businesses and government agencies to strengthen the health and well-being of our communities.
Community Health Improvement Initiatives
Health Literacy is the ability to find, understand and act on health-related information. We are committed to becoming a more accessible health care organization by improving the way we communicate health information.
Our work includes:
- Establishing a governance structure and policies and practices that promote health literacy
- Communicating in a way that is more accessible, inclusive and understandable
- Offering training and education to providers and staff to communicate more inclusively
Contact Christina Keating at Christina.Keating@uvmhealth.org for more information.
UVM Health is proud to be a member of the Healthcare Anchor Network (HAN), a national group of health care organizations working to strengthening communities through responsible hiring, purchasing, investing and sustainable business practices.
We believe that large institutions like ours can play a key role in improving long-term community health. Our CHI team works with leaders across UVM Health to make sure we use our resources in ways that promote equity and well-being.
By focusing on local hiring, purchasing and investing, we aim to support people who face systemic barriers and help build a stronger, healthier future for everyone.
The Northern New England Poison Center (NNEPC) serves Vermont, Maine and New York, offering fast, accurate help for poison-related questions and concerns to both health care providers and the public — 24/7, free and confidential.
Our Vermont poison prevention education program covers:
- General poison safety tips
- Medication safety
- Drug misuse and abuse
- Suicide prevention
- Cannabis safety
- E-cigarettes and vaping
- Environmental exposures
Need Help? Contact NNEPC Anytime.
Call 1-800-222-1222 (24/7, toll-free, confidential. TTY and interpreter services available)
Text: Poison to 85511 to chat
For non-emergency questions, contact Gayle Finkelstein at gayle.finkelstein@uvmhealth.org