I.M.A.M. Joins Corewell Health in CHNA Initiative

On September 10, 2025, IMAM proudly participated in the Corewell Health Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) Prioritization session, a pivotal event aimed at identifying and addressing the significant health issues facing our community. This collaborative effort, facilitated by Conduent Healthy Communities Institute, engaged numerous stakeholders to review data findings and incorporate valuable community input.

Throughout the CHNA process, which spanned from April to October 2025, the Resilience, Identity, Support, and Empowerment Department (R.I.S.E.) at I.M.A.M diligently assisted in gathering insights through various methods, including secondary data analysis, participation in listening sessions, focus groups, and an online community survey made available in English, Spanish, and Arabic. Such comprehensive outreach allowed the capture of a well-rounded perspective on the health needs of Macomb, Wayne, and Oakland counties in Southeast Michigan.

The study revealed important trends within the explored demographics: for instance, Wayne County has a higher percentage of residents aged 65 and over, while Oakland County boasts the highest median household income. Unfortunately, Wayne County also faces challenges with poverty and unemployment, underscoring the disparities in social determinants of health.

CHNA analysis revealed critical issues affecting community members. Among the top concerns identified were mental health access, affordable healthcare, substance use, and nutrition. Moreover, we recognized the unique barriers that many face, including financial constraints and limited access to care, particularly impacting vulnerable populations such as seniors and low-income families.

The CHNA identified urgent health needs encompassing access to healthcare, diabetes management, environmental quality, housing insecurity, and other related issues. During the prioritization session, including the one that was held at IMAM’s Dearborn HQ, participants scored each health topic based on criteria like community benefit, resource availability, and potential for positive change. The insights gathered will guide Corewell Health in shaping initiatives over the next few years, ensuring we align our efforts with the most pressing health concerns articulated by our community.

Together, we can strengthen our community’s health and well-being. R.I.S.E. is proud to be a platform for people to express their voices and concerns, while also influencing the decision-making process for prioritizing health needs over the next few years.