A commitment to work together to identify, prioritize, and measurably improve the health of the community through prevention, education, and services.
We are a coalition of two neighboring hospitals, Bridgeport Hospital and St. Vincent’s Medical Center, along with the seven departments of public health, federally qualified health centers, and about 100 community and non-profit organizations all serving the Greater Bridgeport Region.
A passion for health equity
Key Initiatives
Hope Charitable Pharmacy of Greater Bridgeport
As one of its first collaborative projects, HIA helped launch the Hope Dispensary of Greater Bridgeport in April 2011, a charitable pharmacy dedicated to serving low-income and uninsured individuals in the Bridgeport community.
Know Your Numbers
Since 2014, HIA partners have hosted free health screenings in local food pantries and other community locations.
Get Healthy Walk ‘n Talk
Get Healthy Walk ‘n Talk is a program in which the public is invited to come out and take a walk in their community with local healthcare professionals.
Community Care Team
The Behavioral Health Task force worked together to establish a high emergency department utilizer Community Care Team (CCT) and supported several public awareness campaigns to de-stigmatize issues around mental health and provide training to providers and support to patients and their families
Smoking Cessation Programs
In partnership through the Healthy Lifestyles Task Force, staff from the health departments in Fairfield, Stratford and Trumbull have been trained to provide smoking cessation programs in the Greater Bridgeport region.
Success Factors
Regular Monthly Meetings with Key Decision Makers
These monthly meetings ensure consistent communication, prioritize the task forces’ work, and keep partner organizations engaged.
Resource Sharing Among Organizations
The collaborative environment allows organizations to share resources and connections, which is especially valuable in times of budget constraints and encourages ongoing participation.
Alignment with CHNA/CHIP Process
HIA’s mission aligns with the Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) and Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) process required for hospitals, health departments, and federally qualified health centers. This alignment fosters long-term partner commitment.
Support from Backbone Organizations
Bridgeport Hospital and St. Vincent’s Medical Center provide crucial support by co-chairing HIA, dedicating staff time, and aiding in progress tracking for CHIP goals, ensuring strong leadership and resource allocation for the initiatives.
