Learn Why — and How — Boston Children’s Hospital Cares for the Health of the Community

// By Lisa D. Ellis //

As we wait for the coronavirus to peak, some health care thought leaders are already looking ahead and envisioning what the post-pandemic role of hospitals should be in their communities. Boston Children’s has been supporting community health for vulnerable, underserved populations all along, and is making an impact in tangible, measurable ways.

In the midst of the coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic, health care organizations around the U.S. are focused on safeguarding the health of people living in their communities. At Boston Children’s in Massachusetts, the pediatric teaching hospital for Harvard Medical School, caring for the health of families in the greater Boston area has long been a priority. In fact, Boston Children’s was one of the first children’s hospitals to include community in its mission statement, according to Shari Nethersole, MD, executive director for community health at Boston Children’s.

Shari Nethersole, MD, executive director for community health at Boston Children’s

“At Boston Children’s, we have cared for the community — and for the health and well-being of children and families who live here — for more than four decades,” she explains, adding that this commitment is demonstrated in a very tangible way through programs, services, and partnerships that promote health and health equity for children and families in the surrounding neighborhoods. “We leverage our resources with community partners such as health centers, community groups, and youth serving organizations with the ultimate goal of improving child health outcomes,” Nethersole says.