Welcome to our series on Health Equity – the idea that every person should have a full and fair chance to be as healthy as possible. If you’re new to this series, we recommend clicking here to view the introduction.

Healthy neighborhoods and health equity go hand in hand. When we ensure everyone has the opportunity to be as healthy as possible, we all thrive. It's about more than medical care. It's about creating an environment where everyone can live their healthiest lives. We must understand the clear link between healthcare and health equity. This is key for strengthening our neighborhoods. We’re excited to share how the Heart of West Lakes is making high-quality healthcare resources available to the community.

Understanding Health Equity: The Foundation of Healthy Communities

There’s a key difference between health equity and health equality. While equality and equity are often used interchangeably, they represent distinct concepts. Equality aims to provide everyone with the same resources. This approach is good, but sometimes it runs into trouble because it doesn't account for individual circumstances and needs.

Access to healthcare providers is a cornerstone of both health equality and health equity. Yet access to a provider who can care for people in culturally informed ways is a key, necessary step when pursuing health equity. Everyone deserves a doctor who can make them feel comfortable, respected, and heard. Unfortunately, discrimination, previous trauma, or poor care lead many to avoid seeking medical attention. The Heart of West Lakes considered all these factors when mapping out the Heart and its tenants. We're excited to showcase our partners who shared the same vision.

Healthcare Access at the Heart: Community Health Centers, Inc. and Florida Blue’s Promise

The Heart of West Lakes Wellness Center ensures high-quality healthcare. Along with a top-notch facility and excellent doctors, the Heart welcomes all Orlando residents without a membership. Community Health Centers, Inc. (CHC) and Florida Blue Center Orlando West Lakes are pivotal partners at the Heart.

CHC transforms the healthcare experience. By focusing on preventative care instead of reactive healthcare, every resident can be healthier. They offer holistic wellness care, pediatrics, behavioral and mental health services, and more. CHC's approach extends beyond medical care. They offer a low-cost pharmacy to allow everyone to afford essential medications. The Center's extended hours, including evenings, accommodate those who work. Every resident can access healthcare when they need it at any time.

Florida Blue's commitment to holistic health is evident in President and CEO Pat Geraghty's words:

"Health is way beyond the distribution of care when someone is unwell. When we think about a senior who gives up going to healthcare because of transportation, we know that our role is way beyond the financing. We provide transportation. We connect college students to seniors because that relationship matters. People in relationships live healthier and longer. We think about the whole being when we think about healthcare."

Our partners provide more than finances. These community partners are dedicated to enhancing wellbeing in the West Lakes area. This promise goes beyond a doctor's office. The Heart connects people and promotes longevity and healthy living. Florida Blue's investment in West Lakes isn't just a short-term venture—it's a long-term commitment to create a more resilient community.

Empowering Wellness Beyond Healthcare

At the Heart, the focus on health equity goes beyond medical care. Opportunities for wellness are spread throughout the 30,000-square-foot facility. Legacy Café serves fresh food, and fitness classes by Florida Blue encourage physical activity. Experts are available to help residents access healthcare on any budget. Additionally, community resources are available to support every aspect of well-being.

Residents offer their voices in shaping future experiences through focus groups. This resident-centric approach takes into account the community's unique needs.

The Heart’s Role in Shaping Health Equity

The Heart is evidence of holistic community wellness. It's a new take on community well-being that acknowledges place-based initiatives addressing health equity. But we can't achieve this vision alone. As Pat Geraghty emphasized, "We stand here as partners with West Lakes. And we will be partners for the long haul."

We invite you to experience this new take on community wellness firsthand. Join us at our open house to witness the Heart's transformative impact. Be part of a community where healthcare access isn't just a service—it's a pathway to thriving. Community presence and engagement are important. We're excited that the Heart is one step toward health equity for the 32805 ZIP Code.