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Author: lavonlewis1@gmail.com

HEAL Webinar Highlights: Honoring Indigenous Sovereignty & Resilience

Written by lavonlewis1@gmail.com on . Posted in Dove Report.

On November 25, the Health Education & Advocacy Leadership (HEAL) Virtual Speaker Series, hosted by HCD International, convened community leaders, health professionals, and advocates for “Honoring Indigenous Sovereignty & Resilience: Understanding Disparities, Root Causes, and Native-Led Solutions.”
The session centered on how history, sovereignty, and self-determination shape health outcomes across tribal and urban Native communities, while highlighting culturally grounded, community-led strategies that strengthen systems and improve long-term outcomes.
The discussion featured perspectives from tribal health leaders, Native community advocates, and representatives from regional health organizations and Native-led consulting groups, offering insights grounded in lived experience, policy, and practice.
Panelists emphasized that effective tribal health solutions must be tribally led, sovereignty-centered, and grounded in trust, honoring local governance, cultural protocols, and community voice. Speakers connected present-day health disparities to historical underinvestment and policy barriers, underscoring the need for systems-level approaches rather than isolated programs. The conversation also highlighted the Indigenous Determinants of Health (IDOH) framework, which recognizes holistic wellness—including cultural practices, language, and community connection—as central to improving health outcomes.
This HEAL session reinforced that advancing Native health equity requires community-driven design, culturally responsive policy, and sustained investment in tribal leadership and self-determined systems. Through HEAL, HCDI continues to create space for meaningful dialogue that elevates Native-led solutions and supports healthier futures for Native communities.

For Immediate Release: HCDI Partners to Expand Long-term Services and Supports (LTSS) Empowering Local Residents to Age in Place

Written by lavonlewis1@gmail.com on . Posted in Dove Report.

Written by HCDI Communications 

“By serving as a vital bridge to essential services, we’re helping older adults and the chronically ill age comfortably in their own homes—while easing the strain on our modern healthcare system.”
– Jean Drummond, President and CEO, HCD International 

HCD International (HCDI) has joined forces with a local Health Department to strengthen Long-term Services and Supports (LTSS) for elderly and chronically ill residents. This partnership is focused on connecting individuals with the care and resources they need to live safely and independently at home.  

“Every person deserves access to high-quality, personalized care that allows them to thrive in the setting that suits them best,” says Drummond. “Our mission is to identify the right mix of services and make those connections happen quickly and effectively.” 

As part of the initiative, Community Health Nurses will engage seniors, disabled persons and their families to complete applications assessing various LTSS and related needs. These incredible nurses bring deep compassion and unwavering dedication to the work—ready to serve and make an immediate impact. 

Shaking hands with each nurse, Drummond adds, “HCDI nurses are excited and ready to hit the ground. We’re incredibly proud to be part of this powerful collaboration to support the health and independence of our community’s most vulnerable.” 

Experience the HCDI impact. Visit hcdi2.creativevelocity.site/ or contact us directly at info@hcdi.com. 

For Immediate Release: HCD International Celebrates 34 Years

Written by lavonlewis1@gmail.com on . Posted in Dove Report.

Celebrating 34 Years Powering Quality Improvement and Delivering Service Excellence for Transformational Healthcare

Written by HCDI Communications

“As the healthcare quality landscape evolves, HCD International’s engagement strategy evolves with it.” – Jean Drummond, President and CEO

For 34 years, HCD International (HCDI) has championed one unwavering belief: everyone deserves high-quality healthcare, especially those hardest to reach. No one’s background or zip code should determine their ability to access care and achieve positive health outcomes.

“On April 19th, we celebrate 34 years of impacting the health and lives of those most in need,” proclaims Jean Drummond, President and CEO, of HCDI.

Jean Drummond’s journey as a Physician Assistant in a medically underserved Washington, D.C. neighborhood ignited her commitment to preventive care. She witnessed firsthand how early intervention transforms lives and strengthens communities.

“Supporting access to quality care doesn’t just improve health—it cuts costs,” Drummond emphasizes. “Preventive services reduce the need for costly hospital admissions, advanced treatments, and chronic disease interventions. Primary care visits act as the first—and often best—line of defense.”

HCDI’s engagement experts know that promoting preventive care requires more than a one-size-fits-all approach. That’s why they combine advanced data analytics with personalized, boots-on-the-ground engagement strategies to build healthier communities nationwide.

In 2024, HCDI launched their Advanced Integrated Matrix (A.I.M.), a game-changing performance dashboard for health plans. This Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution transforms complex data sets into intuitive visual dashboards, unlocking actionable insights for strategic interventions.

“A.I.M. dashboards bring data to life,” says Raj Patel, HCDI’s Director of Population Health Data Analytics. “They help health plans uncover stories hidden in the numbers—stories that guide precise, measurable actions and drive continuous improvement.”

But data alone isn’t enough. Drummond believes health plans should listen to their members, especially if they want to truly engage them. And, is it possible to change ‘Powering” to Driving in the title?

“Quantitative data shows you the ‘what,’ but only your members can tell you the ‘why,’” she explains. “To engage members meaningfully, health plans must actively listen to their voices and experiences.”

Whether closing HEDIS gaps, addressing health-related social needs, deploying cutting-edge data tools, or engaging members via phone or face-to-face through our diverse team of trained Community Health Workers (CHWs), HCDI delivers full-spectrum solutions that improve health outcomes and reduce costs.

Experience the HCDI impact. Visit hcdi2.creativevelocity.site/ or contact us directly at info@hcdi.com.

HCDI’s President & CEO Jean Drummond to Moderate at the 16th Annual Medicaid Innovations

Written by lavonlewis1@gmail.com on . Posted in Dove Report.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

HCDI Communications 

Info@hcdi.com 

 

Washington, DC – December 16th, 2024, we are excited to announce that our President and CEO, Jean Drummond, will be moderating a session at the 16th Annual Medicaid Innovations, hosted by Strategic Solutions. Jean will moderate during the Pre-conference Maternal Health Spotlight, the panel discussion titled “Transforming Medicaid to Combat the Maternal Health Crisis: Reducing Disparities and Advancing Improved Access to Critical Services that Impact Maternal Morbidity and Support Healthy Outcomes.” 

This impactful session will take place in Orlando, Florida, January 27th at 4:00 PM, and we are honored to feature a distinguished group of leaders in maternal and perinatal care. The panelists include: 

 

Strategic Solutions Network’s 16th Annual “Medicaid Innovations Summit” will be held January 28- 29, 2025, at the Rosen Plaza Orlando! The impact of the political landscape on Medicaid and the uncertainty of post-unwinding eligibility operations are leading to unprecedented challenges for Medicaid executives. This program will start your year off with key strategies to help you chart a course for excellence in 2025 and beyond!

This industry-leading annual event offers a unique combination of case study presentations from Medicaid managed care plans and state government agencies, interactive panel discussions featuring a variety of perspectives on topics critical to Medicaid professionals, and insights from industry experts. Past events have gathered 250+ professionals from Medicaid health plans, state agencies, and industry organizations. Also, you’ll have the opportunity to visit up to 30 select key solution providers offering a variety of products and services we deem critical for success in the Medicaid market.  

To register for the conference, visit www.Medicaidinnovations.com 

Closing Cervical Cancer Screening Gaps

Written by lavonlewis1@gmail.com on . Posted in Dove Report.

HCDI Supports Members with Cervical Cancer Screening Appointments  

Did you know that each year in the United States, about 11,500 new cases of cervical cancer are diagnosed and about 4,000 women die of cervical cancer?

According to the CDC, cervical cancer occurs when cells in the cervix grow uncontrollably. The cervix connects the vagina to the uterus, where a baby develops during pregnancy. 

Signs and Symptoms   

It’s important to note that in the early stages, symptoms may not appear, but as the cancer progresses, it can cause: 

  • Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause 
  • Heavier and longer menstrual bleeding 
  • Watery or bloody vaginal discharge with a foul odor 
  • Pelvic pain or pain during intercourse 

 

Reducing the Risk for Cervical Cancer 

There are several ways to reduce your risk for cervical cancer: 

  • Get the HPV vaccine: It protects against types of HPV that cause cervical cancer. 
  • Get regular screenings: Pap and HPV tests can catch early changes in the cervix. 
  • Avoid smoking: Smoking raises your cervical cancer risk. 
  • Use condoms: They help reduce HPV transmission, the leading cause of cervical cancer. 

 

Data on Cervical Cancer 

The American Cancer Society’s estimates for cervical cancer in the United States for 2024 are: 

  • About 13,820 new cases of invasive cervical cancer will be diagnosed. 
  • About 4,360 women will die from cervical cancer. 

Cervical cancer is commonly diagnosed in women between the ages of 35 and 44, with the average age of diagnosis being 50. If you’re 30 or older, talk to your doctor about screening options. Regular tests can detect changes early. 

 

Health Equity Lens: Barriers to Screening 

When examining cervical cancer through the health equity lens, we recognize several barriers to screening: 

  • Lack of awareness: Many individuals may not know the importance of cervical cancer screening or may not be informed about how and when to get screened. 
  • Cultural or language challenges: Cultural beliefs or language barriers can make it difficult for some communities to access or feel comfortable with cervical cancer screening. 
  • Fear or discomfort with the process: Some women may experience anxiety or fear about the screening procedure, leading them to avoid it altogether. 
  • Economic barriers: Financial constraints, such as lack of insurance or high out-of-pocket costs, can prevent individuals from seeking regular screenings or treatment. 

 

At HCDI, we address barriers to cervical cancer screening in minority communities through dedicated community liaisons such as Jeniffer and Jean who help underserved populations access screenings. 

Jennifer Cano’s Experience 

Jennifer Cano: I once called a member who hadn’t completed her Pap smear because she didn’t understand its purpose and felt healthy. I explained that cervical cancer screenings are preventive tests to detect abnormal cells before they turn into cancer. Early detection can greatly improve treatment outcomes. I also described the procedure, reassuring her that she could request a female doctor for comfort. After addressing her concerns, we were able to schedule her screening. 

Preventing Cervical Cancer 

 It’s crucial to get screened for cervical cancer. The HPV and Pap tests are key in detecting and preventing cervical cancer early. Start Pap tests at age 21. If normal, wait three years for the next test. After age 30, a Pap and HPV test combination may be recommended for more thorough screening. 

Resources 

For more information on cervical cancer screening, visit www.cdc.gov/cervical-cancer/screening/ 

 

For Immediate Release: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas and HCDI to Host “Food as Medicine” Webinar

Written by lavonlewis1@gmail.com on . Posted in Dove Report.

HCDI Communications – Info@hcdi.com 

Washington, DC – November 25th, 2024, we’re excited to announce the upcoming HEAL Virtual Speaker Series – “Food as Medicine”.

This important session will explore strategies to ensure equitable access to healthy food, focusing on addressing food justice and advancing health equity in underserved communities.  

We’ll discuss innovative approaches to food security and how nutrition can be a powerful tool to improve health outcomes. Participants will leave with practical insights and actionable solutions to advocate for food justice initiatives in their communities. 

The “Food as Medicine” webinar will feature expert speakers including Rachel Koay, Chief Equity & Impact Officer at Feeding Texas, Janelle St. John, Executive Director of Growing Home, Inc. , and Dion Dawson, Founder/Executive Director of Dion’s Chicago Dream.  

We encourage an open, collaborative dialogue throughout the event. To keep things relaxed and engaging, participants are invited to bring their lunch or a meal with them—and even a family member or friend to join the discussion. Our goal is to create a warm, intimate space where everyone feels comfortable contributing to the conversation.  

At the end of the session, we’ll have a Q&A where you can ask questions, share your thoughts, and connect directly with the speakers. 

Click the link to register now Webinar and to learn more about the webinar visit HEAL Virtual Speaker Series- “Food as Medicine” 

HCD International is an award-winning healthcare advising and management firm dedicated to advancing equitable healthcare solutions globally. With a steadfast commitment to addressing health disparities and fostering health equity, HCD International leverages innovative strategies, data-driven insights, and collaborative partnerships to drive transformative change in healthcare delivery. Through a comprehensive suite of services encompassing advisory solutions, research, and advocacy, HCD International stands at the forefront of effecting positive change in the healthcare landscape. The company’s visionary approach, coupled with a dedication to addressing the root causes of health disparities, empowers communities, healthcare organizations, and policymakers to create a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system. To learn more about HCDI’s health equity engagement services, visit hcdi2.creativevelocity.site/ or contact us directly at info@hcdi.com.  

For Immediate Release: Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas and HCDI to Host Webinar on Maternal Health Equity

Written by lavonlewis1@gmail.com on . Posted in Dove Report.

HCDI Communications

Washington, DC – October 29th, 2024, We’re thrilled to announce the October session of our virtual Health, Equity, Advocacy, and Leadership (HEAL) series!

The webinar is a collaboration between Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Texas, and HCD International. This important event focuses on maternal health equity and builds on the impactful discussions from the HEAL Summit at Huston-Tillotson University in April and our September event at Paul Quinn College.  

This session will feature a panel discussion with Tiffany Davis, Executive Director of Quality Improvement and Health Equity of Health Care Service Corporation,  Dr. LaTasha Jarrett a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist, and Maya Hardigan, Founder and CEO of Mae, a culturally responsive digital-first platform connecting Black expectant and new mothers with critical resources to drive positive pregnancy outcomes. They will provide a comprehensive analysis of current disparities in maternal health and highlight innovative, community-centered best practices being implemented in Texas, particularly in Austin and Dallas. 

We encourage participants to engage actively and bring their insights to the discussion. The session will conclude with a Q&A, allowing you to ask questions and share your thoughts. Join us in this vital dialogue aimed at advancing health equity in our communities!  

Click the link to register now Webinar and to learn more about the webinar visit Maternal Health Deep Dive: HEAL Virtual Speaker Series 

HCD International is an award-winning healthcare advising and management firm dedicated to advancing equitable healthcare solutions globally. With a steadfast commitment to addressing health disparities and fostering health equity, HCD International leverages innovative strategies, data-driven insights, and collaborative partnerships to drive transformative change in healthcare delivery. Through a comprehensive suite of services encompassing advisory solutions, research, and advocacy, HCD International stands at the forefront of effecting positive change in the healthcare landscape. The company’s visionary approach, coupled with a dedication to addressing the root causes of health disparities, empowers communities, healthcare organizations, and policymakers to create a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system. To learn more about HCDI’s health equity engagement services, visit hcdi2.creativevelocity.site/ or contact us directly at info@hcdi.com.  

Closing Breast Cancer HEDIS Gaps: HCDI Engages Members to Get Their Annual Mammograms

Written by lavonlewis1@gmail.com on . Posted in Dove Report.

October is breast cancer awareness month; Breast cancer is a disease in which cells in the breast grow out of control.

The kind of breast cancer depends on which cells in the breast turn into cancer. Most breast cancers begin in the ducts or lobules. Breast cancer can spread outside the breast through blood vessels and lymph vessels. When breast cancer spreads to other parts of the body, it is said to have metastasized. 

The most common kinds of breast cancer are: 

  • Invasive ductal carcinoma. The cancer cells begin in the ducts and then grow outside the ducts into other parts of the breast tissue. Invasive cancer cells can also spread, or metastasize, to other parts of the body. 
  • Invasive lobular carcinoma. Cancer cells begin in the lobules and then spread from the lobules to the breast tissues that are close by. These invasive cancer cells can also spread to other parts of the body. 

Statistics 

  • 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in her lifetime. Black women are 40 percent more likely to die from breast cancer compared to white women.  
  • While approximately 72% of women aged 50-74 receive regular mammograms, disparities exist across racial and ethnic groups. According to recent statistics, only about 64% of Black women and 60% of Hispanic women are screened regularly, compared to 74% of White women. 

Risk Factors 

Key Factors:

  • Age (over 50) 
  • Genetic mutations (BRCA1, BRCA2) 
  • Reproductive history 
  • Dense breast tissue 
  • Personal or family history of breast cancer 
  • Previous radiation treatment 

Reducing the Risk Factors of Breast Cancer  

 Signs You Should Know 

  • New lumps or swelling in the breast or underarm 
  • Changes in skin texture or color 
  • Nipple changes or discharge 
  • Alterations in breast size or shape 

HCDI’s Commitment to Addressing Breast Cancer Screening Disparities  

HCDI is committed to addressing breast cancer screening disparities. Each year, our health equity engagement specialists conduct outreach to health plan members past due for their mammograms to notify them and schedule their screenings. 

HCDI Breast Cancer Case Study 

Issue: A Medicaid Managed Care Organization (MCO) in Washington DC sought to engage hard-to-reach members to get mammograms for early breast cancer detection. Their members faced issues such as health illiteracy and unmet social needs which contributed to lower HEDIS scores and increased care costs from delayed diagnoses. 

Solution: HCDI team found a high demand for mammograms but identified obstacles faced by members. After analyzing client data, an engagement plan was created. Community Health Liaisons educated Medicaid plan members about barriers and assisted in scheduling appointments. 

Results: HCDI helped the MCO close 35,000 HEDIS Gaps since 2019. 

HCDI Community Laison Simone’s Story with Helping Member Schedule for her Mammogram  

“I spoke with a member about completing a yearly mammogram, she was excited and curious at the same time as to why I had called at that particular time because she says her sister had literally just asked her that same day when was the last time she had completed an exam; I then assured her that this call was definitely the confirmation she needed and we both shared a brief laugh. Well, after she completed the exam, she contacted me to thank me for the call that saved the day and quite possibly maybe her life, because the doctor did find an issue that required further examinations. Besides the assistance in scheduling the exam, I also provided transportation to and from the appointment as the member stated that getting to and from appointments was also another barrier to her having her exams on time.  The member was so grateful for the call and the transportation that she refused to accept the $25 visa card incentive which was given at the time by HCDI to all the members who had completed their mammograms. She exclaimed that the help already provided was more than enough of an incentive and she repeatedly kept thanking me for everything. She exclaimed, “you are an Angel”, I replied, no I am not an angel, just a HCDI Community Health Worker!”-Simone, HCD International Community Laison 

To learn more about how HCDI, can help your health plan close HEDIS gaps for Breast cancer Screenings contact us directly info@hcdi.com  

Find Screening Program Near You  

For Immediate Release: HCDI to Host Webinar for ACAP’s 2024 SDoH Showcase

Written by lavonlewis1@gmail.com on . Posted in Dove Report.

Customized Technology to Address Social Drivers of Health

Washington, DC – October 3rd, 2024, HCDI has proudly achieved ACAP Preferred Vendor Status. ACAP, the Association of Community Affiliated Plans, represents non-profit Medicaid and Medicare health plans across the nation. 

Join us on Thursday, October 3rd, 2024, at 12 PM ET for an insightful webinar with the Association for Community Affiliated Plans (ACAP). Discover how HCD International (HCDI) can improve health outcomes for your members by strategically addressing social drivers of health for your members, including those most vulnerable. Our diverse team of passionate health equity professionals is committed to supporting community health through a comprehensive portfolio of data-driven services customized to the needs of the MCO and its members.  

Our complementary webinar titled Addressing Social Drivers Through Customized Technology and Unparalleled Services to Improve Health Outcomes will showcase the dynamic power of our performance dashboards for driving deep and impactful data insights coupled with our strategic health equity approach to embed sustainable and lasting health equity interventions.  

Our Advanced Integrated Matrix for Equity (A.I.M.e) performance dashboards eliminate the need for manual reporting and offer valuable insight for health plans through both high-level and detailed visualizations with the stratification of multiple data sources for multifaceted understanding of unique HRSN and SDOH needs allowing plans to create interventions with data-driven results. 

Register today Webinar Registration – Zoom  and to learn more about HCD International visit hcdi2.creativevelocity.site/ or contact us directly info@hcdi.com. 

HCD International is an award-winning healthcare advising and management firm dedicated to advancing equitable healthcare solutions globally. With a steadfast commitment to addressing health disparities and fostering health equity, HCD International leverages innovative strategies, data-driven insights, and collaborative partnerships to drive transformative change in healthcare delivery. Through a comprehensive suite of services encompassing advisory solutions, research, and advocacy, HCD International stands at the forefront of effecting positive change in the healthcare landscape. The company’s visionary approach, coupled with a dedication to addressing the root causes of health disparities, empowers communities, healthcare organizations, and policymakers to create a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system. To learn more about HCDI’s health equity engagement services, visit hcdi2.creativevelocity.site/ or contact us directly at info@hcdi.com.  

Unlocking the Impact of Strategic Partnerships to Improve Health Outcomes

Written by lavonlewis1@gmail.com on . Posted in Dove Report.

Key Takeaways from HCDI’s President & CEO and Health Plan Partners Presentation at MHPA24 Conference  

By HCDI Communications 

September 2024 

It takes a village, a common idiom expressed in the United States today, exemplifies the value of examining the big picture of strategic partnerships when addressing health disparities within vulnerable communities. Through an evolving healthcare landscape, complexities within community health need to be addressed using a multifaceted approach with intentional partnerships for sustainable, lasting interventions.  

On September 13th, Jean Drummond, President and CEO of HealthCare Dynamics International (HCDI), had the privilege of presenting with a valued health plan partner on the compounding impact of building strategic partnerships to improve health outcomes for all, especially those most vulnerable at Medicaid Health Plans of America (MHPA).  

The dynamic presentation titled Shifting from Traditional to Transformational Care: Reimagined Roles and Strategic Partnerships within MCOs to Deliver Equitable Outcomes explored the results-driven impact of the following:  

  • Shifting the role of the traditional MCO and redefining it to meet modern health equity challenges to create opportunities for growth; 
  • Creating buy-in both across the enterprise and externally to deliver health equity in a Transformational Care Model; 
  • Building agile partnerships with CBOs and trusted organizations to collaborate on an integrated approach to amplify health equity strategies and improve health outcomes. 

Drummond and other featured presenters engaged the audience with a colorful, visual and data-driven presentation while weaving in a high-impact member scenario to demonstrate the direct results of creating intentional partnerships to close gaps in care and address social determinants of health and health-related social needs for the member and her family.  

Presenters explored the difference in approaching health disparities through a data-driven health equity lens. Through this framework, strategic partnerships and MCOs meet the specific needs of the population being served, improving quality while reducing costs.  

HCDI is an award-winning, woman- and minority-owned organization operating since 1991 that is dedicated to improving the health outcomes of all, especially vulnerable populations.  HealthCare Dynamics International’s niche is policy to practice and expertise in member engagement for hard-to-reach populations measuring program impact and improved HEDIS scores. Our focus is on Medicaid, Medicare and special needs populations. Proven methodologies that are national in scale and spread & local in impact. HCDI is HITRUST certified to protect our partners’ protected health information.                                                                         

To learn more about HCDI’s health equity engagement services, visit hcdi2.creativevelocity.site/ or contact us directly at info@hcdi.com