ConnectWell CIE launches in Stark County to link health and social services

A new community platform is launching in Stark County to better coordinate physical, behavioral and social care referrals — a collaborative effort among foundations, healthcare providers, government entities and social service organizations.

“In my 30-plus-year career, this is the most significant show of support among so many different organizations,” said John Aller, executive director of Stark County Mental Health & Addiction Recovery (StarkMHAR). “The Sisters of Charity Foundation, North Canton Medical Foundation, Aultman Health System, the Timken Foundation of Canton, the City of Canton, the United Way of Greater Stark County, and StarkMHAR all came to the table willing to listen to a bold new idea.”

The effort began in 2019, when StarkMHAR, Aultman Health System and the Stark County Educational Service Center jointly funded a chief health integration officer position to lead collaborative health initiatives. Dr. Anju Mader began in that role on Aug. 1, 2020.

“The challenges faced by community members when accessing vital healthcare and non-medical services are complex, but our commitment to Stark County residents is unwavering,” said Mader, who now also serves as director of ConnectWell CIE of East Central Ohio.

After years of research and community conversations — including the 2022 Voices of Stark County Report — the group identified the need for a unified system to connect residents with wraparound services. That system, a Community Information Exchange (CIE), links healthcare, behavioral health and social service providers through a shared digital platform.

Following a feasibility study and social return-on-investment analysis by Ohio University’s Voinovich School, the team selected Unite Us as the platform provider. The CIE, called ConnectWell CIE of East Central Ohio, launched Nov. 4 under the administration of Goodwill Industries of Greater Cleveland and East Central Ohio, which also serves as fiscal agent.

“ConnectWell CIE provides the infrastructure to connect dedicated service providers, streamline referrals and ensure individuals receive the comprehensive support they need to thrive,” Mader said.

For example, someone visiting a food pantry who mentions a health concern can now be referred directly to medical or mental health providers through the CIE, shifting the burden of connection from the individual to the service network.

Research suggests that removing barriers for just 10% of Stark County residents needing mental health, substance use, housing, transportation and nutrition support could generate more than $19.3 million in annual healthcare savings.

“ConnectWell CIE is an important step in better connecting people to the resources they need,” said Mark Trew, COO of Goodwill Industries of Greater Cleveland and East Central Ohio. “This endeavor underscores Goodwill’s commitment to partnerships that create meaningful community impact.”

Kevin Pete, senior vice president at Aultman Health System, added, “By working together, we can help ensure individuals receive the comprehensive services they need to improve their health and well-being.”

For more information, visit goodwillgoodskills.org/connectwell.