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
UAMS Enrolls 25 Doula Trainees from 14 Arkansas Counties in Latest Class
LITTLE ROCK — The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Institute for Community Health Innovation will train at least 25 doulas in 2026 after enrolling its latest class of trainees in January. The institute launched its comprehensive doula training program in 2025 in partnership with Ujima Maternity Network and Birthing Beyond, enrolling more than…
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The Heart & Lung Connection
By Sheldon Riklon, M.D. Your heart and lungs are two of the most important organs in your body. They work closely together every minute of the day to keep you healthy and strong. When one is not healthy, the other is often affected. That’s why taking care of both your heart and your…
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Digital Health Diabetes Education Improves Health of Rural Communities Across Arkansas
LITTLE ROCK — Delivering family-centered diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) programs through digital health can significantly improve health outcomes for people with Type 2 diabetes, particularly those living in rural and underserved communities, according to researchers from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Institute for Community Health Innovation.
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UAMS, Ujima Celebrate Graduation of First Doula Class
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Institute for Community Health Innovation and Ujima Maternity Network recently celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of their comprehensive, joint doula certification program, recognizing more than 40 doulas who have received certification through the program.
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