The Reid Health Community Benefit program recently awarded $178,250 in grants to programs designed to promote good nutrition, physical activity and healthy weight in the second grant cycle of 2018.
Grants, along with other specific outreach and requirements to meet the system’s not-for-profit status, have put almost $176 million back into the community in the last five years. A committee of Reid Health’s governing board reviews grant requests. The grants are awarded as part of the health system’s efforts as a mission-driven, not-for-profit organization.
To review the grants, CLICK HERE
Community benefit is the basis of the tax-exempt status of not-for-profit hospitals. Community benefit is defined as programs or activities that improve access to health services, enhance public health, advance increased general knowledge, and/or relieve the burden of government to improve health. In 2010, the Affordable Care Act added new requirements for tax-exempt hospitals in the areas of community health needs assessment (CHNA), implementation strategy, billing and collections and reporting. In 2014 the IRS issued final rules implementing these requirements. The goals of these provisions are to ensure that tax-exempt hospitals are meeting the health needs of their communities and to ensure greater transparency and accountability.
In addition to grants, the Reid Health Community Benefit sponsors various programs focused on community health. In the area of access to care, Reid Health Community Benefit initiated a dental clinic focused on serving those with little or no dental coverage. Community benefit funds support Claim Aid to assist individuals in applying for health insurance plans or Reid’s financial assistance when necessary. Access to care also includes the shortfall of the cost of care rendered to those who have Medicaid coverage. Reid has continued to support community health clinics, such as Siloam Clinic and Hope Center with processing of lab services and providing supplies necessary for operations.
To address substance abuse and mental health needs, Reid has provided Narcan kits and training to first responders to prevent death from opioid overdose, containers to dispose of needles for police departments, and participated in efforts to reduce the incidence of babies being born addicted to drugs.
Reid has supported programs addressing physical activity, nutrition and weight such as athletic training services to community schools, community screenings, cooking classes, health fairs, support groups, Reid Healthier Wellness club and provided support for many health education events.
