Why Global Collaboration Matters to Children's Health

Needs and goals vary from country to country, but we’re all committed to ensuring every child has access to the best care possible – no matter their location or circumstances.

While the Children’s Hospital Association (CHA) primarily partners with and serves U.S. hospitals – and many federal policies and processes are unique to our borders – it’s valuable to come together with colleagues from around the world to explore how political determinants have and will continue to shape health outcomes for children.

Advocating for kids everywhere 

In mid-April, Leah Evangelista, CHA’s chief public affairs and brand officer, joined a panel at the Children’s Healthcare Canada Annual Conference with colleagues from Australia and Canada to discuss advocating for children’s health and hospitals. The event was attended by some 400 health leaders.

Evangelista explained Medicaid to attendees and how any cuts to it will affect the way health care is delivered to the 37 million children across our country who depend on the program for access to lifesaving care, including more than 7 million kids with special health care needs.

While preserving Medicaid is currently one of our top legislative priority, Evangelista also shared CHA’s efforts – alongside children’s hospitals and universities – to protect pediatric research and innovation, expand mental health awareness and services for kids and teens, and address the health care workforce shortage, which the WHO declared a global crisis.

Panelists also spotlighted policies in some Canadian provinces that are creating barriers to access and quality care. And they discussed innovative strategies to bridge health equity gaps anywhere.

Strategies without borders

No matter where we live or which populations we serve, child health advocates and providers can learn a lot from each other.

We know that despite politics and policy, health care is better without borders. By sharing information with one another, we can advance pediatric health, regardless of where we call home. Working across aisles, borders, and systems is essential for children everywhere to live healthy lives.

Learn how CHA is working to ensure every child has access to high-quality, cost-effective health care services.