About the Institute for Community Health Innovation
The Institute for Community Health Innovation exists to change the state of health of Arkansas. We are driving impactful, lasting change in health outcomes, clinical practices, education, and policy. We do this through our focus on innovative approaches and engaging the power of community and partners across the state.
The Institute for Community Health Innovation leads the way in community-engaged research projects and programs. We are strategically focused on:
- Maternal and child health
- Access to health services
- Health, hunger and nutrition
- Diabetes and cardiometabolic diseases
Our multi-disciplinary team is nationally recognized for our work in community health. With more than 100 community-engaged partners and 170 team members across the state, together we will create a better state of health for all.
Recent News
Connection Takes Root at Annual Northwest Arkansas Health Summit
National and state leaders in health care and community outreach recently convened at the Fayetteville Town Center to engage, learn, and collaborate on solutions to improve access to care across Arkansas. The April 2 summit kicked off with a keynote discussion by Neel Shah, chief medical officer of Maven Clinic, and nurse midwife Cara Osborne…
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Growing Together: Understanding Your Child’s Development
By Sheldon Riklon, M.D. Childhood is a time of growth, discovery, and change. From a baby’s first smile to a toddler’s first words, these special moments are called developmental milestones, which help parents understand how children are learning, communicating, and exploring the world around them. While every child grows at their own pace, milestones…
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UAMS Working with Schools in Carroll, Madison Counties to Develop Behavioral Health Outreach Programs
FAYETTEVILLE — The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Institute for Community Health Innovation will work with schools in Carroll and Madison counties to establish programs aimed at reducing behavioral risk factors for youth, while preparing students for career opportunities in community health. Through a $1.2 million Rural Communities Pathways grant, funded by the…
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Northwest Arkansas Health Summit Returns April 2
New Maternal Health Research Retreat Set for April 1 FAYETTEVILLE — The 2026 Northwest Arkansas Health Summit, hosted by the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Institute for Community Health Innovation, will bring community leaders and pioneers in innovative health to Fayetteville on April 2. This year’s summit will be held from 8 a.m.-3:30…
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