Midwest Asian Health Association

Overview

Midwest Asian Health Association (MAHA) is a non-profit organization established in 2003 to address health disparities affecting medically underserved and low-income populations, particularly focusing on Asian Americans in the Midwest region of the United States.

Mission Statement

MAHA's mission is to reduce health disparities by providing culturally sensitive and linguistically appropriate services. These services include community outreach education, screening and immunization, linkage to care, mental health services, and research and policy advocacy. MAHA collaborates with various organizations, healthcare providers, academic institutions, public health departments, and volunteers to achieve its mission[1][2].

Programs and Services

Community Health Center

The MAHA Community Health Center offers comprehensive health education, screenings for conditions like diabetes and hypertension, annual check-ups, immunizations, and patient care referrals. It targets individuals with language and cultural barriers to healthcare, particularly in the south side of Chicago. Health screenings are conducted monthly, followed by free medical consultation sessions[4].

Community Mental Health Clinic

Established in 2015, the clinic provides linguistically and culturally sensitive mental health services to Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander populations. Services include individual and family therapy, stress management, and mental health seminars. The staff are proficient in Mandarin Chinese, Cantonese, and English, catering to diverse needs[3].

Health Insurance Navigator Program

This program assists eligible individuals in navigating and enrolling in Medicaid and Marketplace health insurance plans, ensuring access to healthcare for those who need it[1].

Employment and Career Development

MAHA offers employment assistance through programs like the Smart Match Employment Program, which supports low-income Asians and minorities with mental illness or developmental disabilities. Additionally, the JTED Restaurant Upskill Project provides career pathways and re-entry support into the labor force[1].

Specialized Initiatives

Other notable initiatives include the Alzheimer’s Disease Early Detection & Awareness Campaign, Gambling Awareness and Prevention Program, and various substance use prevention programs[1].

Leadership and Recognition

MAHA is led by Executive Director Hong Liu, Ph.D., who has been a prominent advocate for public health in the Asian community. Dr. Liu has received several awards for her dedication to public health, including the Public Health Advocacy Award from the Illinois Public Health Association[5].

MAHA operates with a diverse board of directors and advisory council, ensuring a comprehensive approach to addressing health disparities within the community[5].