The Health Equity category recognizes organizations that have implemented interventions to address disparities by race and ethnicity, socioeconomic status, geographic location, disability, and/or sexual orientation across a range of conditions.
Category Winner
CPESN USA partnered with HQI in 2024 to address vaccine hesitancy and improve access in Kansas, Missouri, South Carolina and Virginia. Data revealed low vaccination rates for COVID-19, pneumonia, influenza and RSV in nursing home residents and staff, driven by limited provider access. CPESN launched two initiatives. The Vaccine Hesitancy Program in Virginia focused on education, while the Vaccine Administration Program expanded access in all four states. Trained pharmacy teams leveraged community trust to provide education, increase vaccinations and close care gaps.
From September 25 to October 30, 2024, 279 clinics administered 12,795 immunizations, saving over $59M in healthcare costs. Each vaccine saved $4,000 in healthcare spending, underscoring the role of pharmacy teams in improving public health.
First Runner-Up
The Mercy Virtual Substance Use Recovery Program (vSURP) addresses health disparities in Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) by providing accessible, patient-centered care. It connects individuals to ongoing treatment, regardless of location, setting, or financial status. Through virtual addiction specialists, prescribing services, and support from social workers, vSURP integrates OUD care across Mercy’s services, promoting team-based, sustainable recovery.
Overall, vSURP has significantly improved community health and reduced disparities. The program saw a 72% decrease in crisis events and saved 257 lives. It connected 46 patients to health insurance, 55 to primary care, 90 to employment, and 16 to stable housing, with positive maternal outcomes for 8 participants.
Second Runner-Up
Petersburg, VA struggles with poor health outcomes, including low life expectancy, high food insecurity, and chronic diseases. Walnut Hill Pharmacy partnered with local organizations for a Food as Medicine pilot to improve nutrition, food security, and health for at-risk diabetes patients.
From May 2023 to March 2024, 47 patients received weekly groceries, nutrition education, and medication. Pharmacy staff tracked food insecurity, blood sugar, and blood pressure through surveys and screenings.
Survey results showed increased vegetable consumption, a 9.7% average drop in A1Cs, a 19-point decrease in blood pressure, and a 54% reduction in food insecurity. Participants also felt more empowered to manage their health.
2024 Nominees
This year’s exceptional nominees include a diverse range of organizations across the United States, such as acute care hospitals, long-term care facilities, community organizations, health collaboratives, pharmacies, state agencies and clinician practices.
