What is the new initiative for childhood adversity at Loma Linda University?

Introduction

Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital’s Resiliency Institute for Childhood Adversity (RICA) has recently been awarded a significant $500,000 grant from the state of California. This funding aims to develop a model that addresses childhood adversity and enhances long-term health outcomes.

Funding and Collaboration

This initiative is part of the UCLA-UCSF ACEs Aware program and will be implemented over the next 18 months in collaboration with the Inland Empire Health Plan, the California Surgeon General, and the Department of Health Care Services.

Goals of the Grant

The grant will facilitate the creation and implementation of a replicable model designed to improve services for foster youth and children who have experienced violence. RICA’s approach will integrate trauma-informed medical and mental health care, offering extended appointment times and fostering collaboration among doctors, mental health providers, and social workers. This will enable providers to identify, report, and mitigate trauma and toxic stress in children.

Community Support

Dr. Amy Young, director of RICA, stated, “Our goal is to create a community of support, so when a child or caregiver faces a challenging situation, they know they can turn to us for help. We want them to think of their doctor’s office as a place where they can receive medical care and the support and resources they need to navigate their challenges.”

Enhanced Care Management

The grant will also support the implementation of an Enhanced Care Management team for foster youth and expand the Community Health Worker (CHW) workforce. This will provide certified patient navigators to assist at-risk children in accessing both medical and mental health care.

Impact Since Opening

Since its opening in 2021, RICA has successfully served over 3,500 children across the Inland Empire, including areas such as San Bernardino and Riverside counties, with patients traveling from as far as Coachella and Victorville.

Conclusion

For more information about the Loma Linda University Children’s Resiliency Institute for Childhood Adversity, visit online.