Who We Are
We are a diverse team dedicated to working with communities to create a better state of health for all. We seek to identify and understand health needs through research and programs and work to create an environment where every person has access to their best health.
View our Annual Report here.
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What We Do
Community-Engaged Research: We work with individuals, organizations, schools and communities to collaboratively identify, understand, and address health inequities.
Community Health Innovation & Action: We turn research into action by creating innovative and community-based programs to achieve equitable health for all people.
Community Health Equity: We use what we learn to effect policy change, environmental changes and better health and wellness opportunities, creating a better state of health for all.
Together, for a Better State of Health
A highly successful and productive research office, Community Health & Research leads a variety of community-engaged research and programs focused on Health Equity & Access; Family Wellness; Health, Hunger & Nutrition; and Diabetes & Cardiometabolic Diseases.
Health Equity & Access
We are working with CHWs and communities to ensure every Arkansan can access and understand healthcare.
Health Equity & Access
Family Wellness
We are improving health for women, children and families by increasing access to quality maternal care and support systems.
Family Wellness
Health, Hunger & Nutrition
We work with schools and communities to ensure every Arkansan has equitable access to healthy, affordable food.
Health, Hunger & Nutrition
Diabetes & Cardiometabolic Diseases
We partner with communities to learn about health disparities that exist, and to implement programs that reduce barriers to health.
Diabetes & Cardiometabolic DiseasesResearch That Makes a Difference
We are leading the way to improve health outcomes for all people, engaging in innovative collaborations with regional, statewide and national organizations dedicated to eliminating health disparities and improving health outcomes for all.
Our Approach to Research
Our faculty and staff are creating a better state of health through research and innovation. Learn more here.
Learn More
A Message From Dr. Pearl McElfish
Hear from our division director, Pearl McElfish, Ph.D., about the mission of UAMS Community Health and Research.
A Message from Dr. McElfish
Publications
Our researchers have produced groundbreaking research that has led to policy change and better health outcomes for communities across the world. Learn more here.
Publications
Center for Pacific Islander Health
The Center for Pacific Islander Health is a multi-disciplinary center focusing on research, community programs, training, and policy.
Center for Pacific Islander Health
Translational Research Institute
The UAMS Translational Research Institute provides services and resources to ensure the swift translation of research into health care advances.
UAMS Translational Research InstituteRecent News
UAMS, Madison County Health Coalition Discuss Ways to Improve Care for Expectant Mothers in Huntsville
The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) Institute for Community Health Innovation joined a recent meeting of the Madison County Health Coalition to discuss ways the institute is improving care for expectant mothers in and around Huntsville.
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UAMS to Expand Healthy Start Program in South Arkansas
FAYETTEVILLE — The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) will expand its Healthy Start program to Ashley, Ouachita and Union counties this fall, providing essential prenatal care services to women and families in south Arkansas. Since 2019, the UAMS Institute for Community Health Innovation has offered the Healthy Start program — funded by the…
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UAMS Study Finds More Doulas Needed in Arkansas
FAYETTEVILLE — Community-based doulas can help mothers better navigate the health care system and provide cultural support, but there are not enough doulas in Arkansas to serve communities, according to researchers from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). Doulas are trained birth coaches who provide continuous emotional support, advocate for and aid informed…
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Healthy Living Made Simple: Habits for Everyday Wellness and Protection
By Sheldon Riklon, M.D. Germs and bacteria can spread quickly between people and through shared surfaces. Practicing these healthy habits can help stop the spread of germs and prevent illness. Stay home if sick and avoid close contact. If you are sick, stay home from work or school. Avoiding close contact with others helps prevent…
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Meet Our Team
Our team is comprised of multidisciplinary faculty and staff who go above and beyond to help create a better state of health for all.
Meet Our Team
Work With Us
Our faculty and staff are leading the way toward better health in Arkansas and beyond. Click here to learn more.
Work With Us
Resource Library
Our office offers resources to help you live your healthiest life. Resources are available to the public in English, Spanish and Marshallese.
Resources
UAMS Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute
The Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, is Arkansas’ only academic cancer treatment and research facility.
Winthrop P. Rockefeller Cancer Institute
UAMS Center for Health Literacy
UAMS Center for Health Literacy is dedicated to improving health by making information easy to understand and use.
UAMS Center for Health Literacy
North Street Clinic
The North Street Clinic is a free clinic for Marshallese patients. Click here for more information about the North Street Clinic in English and Marshallese.
North Street Clinic