Policy and Advocacy

An Overview

Policy and Advocacy

Advocacy is a key strategic priority at the Community Health Commission of Missouri (CHCM). We use advocacy as a tool to drive policy and systems change that improves access to care, strengthens health outcomes, and eliminates health disparities. 

Our approach is non-partisan, evidence-based, collaborative, and person-centered—grounded in real community experiences and powered by deep partnerships across Missouri. 

Through community engagement, coalition-building, and legislative tracking, CHCM works to shape health policy that delivers equitable, sustainable impact across Missouri. 

Priority Areas

CHCM’s policy priorities reflect the key levers we believe will drive health equity across Missouri. Explore the focus areas below to learn how we’re advancing change through coverage expansion, workforce development, social drivers of health, and a deep commitment to justice.

Expanding coverage for the uninsured and underinsured

Many Missourians remain without adequate health coverage, limiting their ability to access timely, affordable care. CHCM advocates for expanded coverage options, reduced financial barriers, and stronger safety-net programs—ensuring health care is accessible, no matter where you live or what you earn. 

 

Protecting access to Medicaid
Achieving health equity

Health disparities in Missouri are driven by race, income, and geography. Black Missourians face worse health outcomes than white Missourians. Rural areas suffer from provider shortages. Low-income families face mounting costs. CHCM supports policies that promote racial justice, improve access, and address root causes of inequity. 

Our mission and vision
Developing the healthcare workforce

Missouri’s health systems are under pressure. Burnout, shortages, and limited training pipelines threaten care delivery—especially in underserved areas. CHCM advocates for recruitment, retention, and training strategies that grow a diverse, prepared healthcare workforce.

Little Medical School
Addressing social determinants of health

Where you live, work, learn, and play has a profound impact on your health. We support policy solutions that improve access to affordable housing, education, transportation, and healthy food—recognizing these as essential to well-being.

Equity-Centered Trauma-Informed Trainings for Community

Our Community-Centered Framework

Community Voice

We believe that those most impacted by health disparities should shape the solutions. Community voice is the heart of our advocacy work. 

Learn more about our Community Initiatives.

Consult

We partner with community leaders, healthcare providers and institutions, policymakers and fellow advocates to drive systemic change.

Learn more about our training and technical assistance offerings.

Collaborate

We partner with community leaders, healthcare providers and institutions, policymakers and fellow advocates to drive systemic change. 

Learn more about our partners across the state.

Educate

We break down complex issues and policy developments so Missourians can stay informed and engaged.

Sign up for our advocacy alerts.

Empower

We provide tools, training, and support to help community members, stakeholders, and advisory boards advocate effectively.  

Learn more about our community empowerment workshops, where we train local leaders to advocate for change, and our youth-focused programs, which empower young people to become change-makers in their communities.  

Influence

We elevate community voice in policymaking – helping Missourians influence decisions that affect their health, schools, neighborhoods, and systems.

Learn more about the impact of our work.

Actions We Prioritize 

  • Take a clear stance on policies that improve health and access. 
  • Partner with other organizations to amplify shared goals  
  • Use data and lived experience to elevate community needs 
  • Equip patients and advisory boards with advocacy skills 
  • Strengthen relationships with elected officials and provide education 

mobilization efforts

Hosting Town Halls

Interested in bringing health equity conversations to your community? CHCM partners with local organizations to facilitate and organize town halls—let’s work together to elevate voices and drive change across Missouri.

Collaborate with us

Events

View All

Keeping up with legislation

Policy Tracker

Each legislative cycle, CHCM tracks state and local policies that impact health equity in Missouri. 

Our 2025 policy tracker is coming soon! Check back for updates throughout the legislative session. 

Stay up-to-date

Legislative Spotlight

Read more on our blog

Downloads

Downloadable resources for implementing equity-centered, trauma-informed policies in your organization or institution.

CHCM Advocacy Strategy

Download

CHCM Health Equity Policy Screen

Download

Creating Equity-Centered Trauma-Informed Policies

Download

Showing 3 results of 4

Request to facilitate and organize a town hall with CHCM

If your organization interested in collaborating with CHCM to facilitate a town hall, please complete the form below. A team member will contact you to confirm if we can accommodate your request.

Name

Get Involved with Policy and Advocacy

Sign up for our advocacy alerts to receive updates on key legislation and regional advocacy opportunities.