Mayor Salud Ahora

Greater Health Now is committed to strengthening the partnerships that have been the cornerstone of our success. Our progress is a testament to the power of unified, community-driven approaches to healthcare. We are excited to launch initiatives focused on enhancing aspects of health-related social needs and wellness, leveraging the power of our collective impact to provide resources tailored to the specific needs of our communities. Our focus on preventative care strategies is not just about improving individual health outcomes; it’s about weaving a tapestry of wellbeing that envelops and uplifts our entire region. Join us as we continue to innovate, collaborate, and drive impactful change, ensuring every community member has the tools and support they need to thrive. Together, we are not just imagining a healthier future — we are actively constructing it. Greater Health  Now (GHN) serves Asotin, Benton, Columbia, Franklin, Garfield, Kittitas, Walla Walla, Whitman, Yakima Counties, and the Yakama Nation. 

What is an accountable community of health?

Accountable communities of health (ACHs) are independent, regional organizations. They work with their communities on specific health care and social needs-related projects and activities. ACHs are working in many ways to improve the health of their communities as a whole. Greater Health Now is Washington State’s largest geographical ACH. 

Where did accountable communities of health come from?

ACHs were designed to be a neutral convener, coordinating body, investor, and connection point between the health care delivery system and local communities. The ACH network was formally created in 2015. Greater Health Now is one of nine ACHs across Washington State. Each ACH is unique, but we share a common approach to improving the health of our communities and transforming health care delivery.

What are the accountable communities of health goals?

ACHs promote health equity and address and coordinate around social determinants of health. They also respond to regional needs and issues. ACHs, in partnership with health care providers, local health jurisdictions, community-based organizations, and many others, are working to:

• Align resources and activities that improve whole-person health and wellness by bringing people and organizations together across sectors for discussion, training, and strategic planning.
• Support efforts that improve the health care delivery system, such as workforce development and value-based purchasing.
• Support the integration of physical and behavioral health care, known as managed care.
• Connect people to care and help coordinate care between providers and organizations.
• Invest in community infrastructure, like electronic health records.