Public Awareness & Participation: HB 337

HB337

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Public Awareness & Participation: HB 337

Distinguished Members of the Committee & Elected Officials,

Virginia has an opportunity to strengthen healthcare for its most vulnerable residents through HB337, legislation that would integrate Community Health Workers (CHWs) into the Medicaid system.

Community Health Workers are trusted members of the communities they serve—people with lived experience who understand cultural barriers, speak the languages of their neighbors, and know how to navigate complex health and social service systems. They help seniors age in place, support pregnant mothers, assist people managing chronic diseases, and connect families to critical resources.

Currently, CHWs work without sustainable funding or formal recognition in Virginia's healthcare system. HB337 would change that by directing state agencies to develop a comprehensive strategy for CHW integration, including Medicaid reimbursement pathways, care team integration, and workforce development.

This is not just good policy—it's a smart investment. Studies show that CHWs reduce hospitalizations, improve health outcomes, and lower overall healthcare costs. For Virginia's families struggling to access care, navigate coverage, or manage complex health needs, CHWs provide a lifeline.

As Virginia legislators consider HB337, our communities are watching. We need leadership that recognizes the value of community-based solutions and invests in the people who know our neighborhoods best.

Sincerely,

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Summary

THE PROBLEM Virginia's most vulnerable residents—seniors, people with disabilities, those managing chronic conditions, and families navigating complex health and social services—face critical gaps in care. Without sustainable funding and formal integration, Community Health Workers (CHWs) who serve as trusted bridges between communities and healthcare systems cannot reach everyone who needs support. Medicaid beneficiaries are falling through the cracks. THE SOLUTION HB337 directs Virginia to develop a statewide strategy to integrate certified Community Health Workers into Medicaid managed care. This bill would: Establish Medicaid reimbursement pathways for CHW services Embed CHWs into care coordination teams Create workforce training pathways for Medicaid and SNAP recipients Deploy CHWs to support high-need populations with chronic conditions, behavioral health needs, disabilities, and complex social challenges TAKE ACTION NOW DMAS & YOUR ELECTED OFFICIAL need to hear from YOU  1)  Contact DMAS to support HB337: Email your comments supporting the bill Share how CHWs have impacted your community Emphasize the need for sustainable funding and MCO integration 2)  Then contact your legislators: Tell them you support HB337 Share your story about why CHWs matter Urge them to vote YES