North Coast Health Improvement Network Enhances Community Care

The North Coast Health Improvement & Information Network (NCHIIN) plays a pivotal role in enhancing healthcare coordination across various sectors in northern California. Formed 15 years ago, NCHIIN emerged in response to the evolving landscape of electronic medical records, which created a pressing need for regional health information exchanges. Chief Operating Officer Jessica Osborne-Stafsnes emphasizes the importance of trust in healthcare data management, stating, “data moves at the speed of trust.”

NCHIIN operates as a nonprofit entity linked with the Humboldt Independent Practice Association (Humboldt IPA). The organization focuses on developing secure and compliant methods for sharing medical records among healthcare providers. Over the years, its mission has expanded to encompass broader community health improvements.

Community Information Exchange and Collaborative Efforts

Recognizing the necessity for coordinated care, NCHIIN launched a Community Information Exchange (CIE) in 2010. This initiative connects various stakeholders, including social service, community, tribal, and government organizations, as well as physical and behavioral health providers. The CIE allows participants to share information through a secure network database, creating a single longitudinal client record that facilitates bi-directional referrals.

Recently, NCHIIN has become involved in the Redwood Region RISE initiative, a California economic development program. As the Sector Investment Coordinator, NCHIIN supports both nonprofit and for-profit organizations in securing resources to advance health projects. “A lot of it,” says Osborne-Stafsnes, “is daylighting what’s out there.”

The organization consists of a small but dedicated team, with about nine staff members who also work for Humboldt IPA. This dual role allows for efficient operations while addressing the complex needs of the community.

Funding and Community Engagement Opportunities

While NCHIIN does not have a direct donation mechanism on its website, there are other avenues for community support. The North Coast Resource Hub began with a focus on harm reduction and substance use disorder treatment, but has since broadened its scope to include a variety of health services. “How do we grow it out; how do we optimize it?” asks Osborne-Stafsnes, highlighting the need for community input in these initiatives.

The organization is also seeking to diversify its Board of Directors, moving beyond its roots in information exchange to include more community representatives. Individuals passionate about health and wellness are encouraged to consider volunteer opportunities. Those interested can contact Jessica Osborne-Stafsnes at [email protected].

Looking ahead, NCHIIN is preparing for the inaugural Humboldt County Community Information Exchange Summit, scheduled for October 2025. This event aims to educate community organizations about the CIE network and how they can engage effectively.

NCHIIN’s unique position as a small, rural organization allows it to experiment with innovative approaches to community health challenges. Their work in establishing the Humboldt Community Health Trust is a testament to their commitment to addressing systemic issues, particularly regarding substance use disorder prevention and treatment.

By convening stakeholders and assessing community needs, NCHIIN has successfully developed comprehensive strategies that are often beyond the capacity of individual organizations. Their efforts to create a more interconnected health system reflect a growing recognition of the importance of collaboration in tackling complex health issues.

As NCHIIN continues to evolve, its contributions to healthcare coordination and community wellness deserve greater visibility. The organization’s initiatives not only enhance the quality of care but also foster a stronger, healthier community in northern California. For more information about NCHIIN and its programs, visit their website at https://www.nchiin.org.

This article is part of a series highlighting impactful nonprofit organizations, written by Michael Kraft on behalf of the Northern California Association of Nonprofits (NorCAN). NorCAN supports connections among organizations dedicated to community health and well-being. To suggest a nonprofit for future profiles, reach out to [email protected].