Networks

CHCA facilitates a variety of networks comprised of staff members from participating CHCs. Each network is centered on specific CHC staff member’s roles and responsibilities, and provides opportunities for training, technical assistance, and the sharing of best practices. Each network meets on a quarterly basis in central Arkansas and offers a series of short training sessions on a variety of topics during the one day meeting.  The agenda is developed based on annual needs assessments, as well as current events, topics, or critical relevant issues.

• CFO Network
  The network enables participants to share best practices related to financial considerations of health center operations, receive training on topics of importance or current interest, develop needed policies and procedures, brainstorm on solutions to common problems, and mentor new financial staff as needed.  Maintaining the financial viability of Arkansas’ heath centers through cost-effective and cost-competitive strategies as well as revenue enhancing actions is the main focus of this group. 
  
  
• Mid-Level Managers Network
  The network provides an opportunity for health center supervisory staff to meet on a quarterly basis to develop new skills or improve existing skills in the area of leadership, building of systems and infrastructure which lead and support the health center in the pursuance of its mission, team building, facilities management, risk management, emergency preparedness and other topics as identified. The main focus of this group will be assessing operations of the health center from a business viewpoint.  Technical assistance and training will be a prominent feature of this meeting as well as the opportunity for dialogue between participants on best practices. 
  
  
• Nurses/Nurse Manager Network
  The network provides an opportunity for nursing staff and nursing managers from the health centers to assemble quarterly for the purpose of receiving technical assistance and clinical education specific to the needs identified by the participants of the Nurse Network. The nurse network meetings are interactive, promote sharing of best practices and provide support across the CHC system statewide. All members of the Network are invited to speak, present and educate in their areas of expertise. The focus is on continuous quality improvement, risk management, and clinical services in the provision of patient-centered health care. 
  
  
• Communications/PR Network
  The network provides an opportunity for public relations staff to meet with the intent of discussing and developing marketing activities and strategies for their health centers.  Continuing education on emerging topics is offered to participants as well as technical assistance to help CHC staff understand marketing concepts.  The main focus of this group will be to enhance the visibility of health center programs and services.