Civic Health Month at CPCA

August marks Civic Health Month – a time dedicated to emphasizing the relationship between voting and health. Nationally, August is an opportunity to celebrate, educate, and enhance the civic health and well-being of communities. Civic Health Month highlights initiatives that ensure all voters can contribute to their community’s health by participating in the electoral process.

At CPCA, we believe civic health is about empowering communities to become civically engaged, ensuring everyone has the knowledge, resources, and opportunities to participate in shaping a healthier and more equitable society. We saw through events across the state leading up to the Primary how community health centers (CHCs) play a crucial role in this effort, serving as ongoing trusted messengers for the community. Civic Health Month highlights initiatives that ensure all voters can contribute to their community’s health by participating in the electoral process.

The importance of the upcoming election cannot be understated. From the twists and turns at the top of the ballot, important choices over our decision makers, and ten California ballot initiatives to decide on, the upcoming election can feel overwhelming. CPCA’s partnership with AltaMed on the My Vote. My Health.™ campaign (MVMH) continues into the General Election, as we continue to support CHCs who are actively educating staff and patients about the importance of using their voice by voting.

Civic engagement is fundamental to the functioning of our democracy. It plays a crucial role in building and sustaining a healthy, vibrant, and inclusive community. As key community members, CHCs serve as a civic hub where community members can become active participants in their health. This work goes well beyond the examination room. The relationship between voting and health outcomes is interconnected. By promoting greater civic participation, CHCs lead the way in addressing the social drivers of health – conditions impacting the way people live and work.

This November, communities have the power to influence change. Health care is a consistent priority at both state and national levels. The remarkable achievements of the MVMH™ campaign underscore the vital role that health care institutions play not only in safeguarding physical well-being but also in fostering civic health. Civic engagement is a pivotal opportunity to promote efforts that can positively influence the civic health of the community. Health care providers can create a healthier democracy by empowering community members to vote and participate in elections. Your vote is your power – make an impact!