The concept of collective impact is in NICHQ's DNA, says NICHQ's Marianne McPherson. All of our work is in some way about bringing together participants from different sectors committed to a common agenda to solve complex social problems. Until recently, we haven't had the benefit of this language or framework. Read More.

While breastfeeding may be a long-standing tradition for some families, for many black women, it’s a practice outside the cultural norm. Today’s cultural patterns harken back generations and are steeped in historical, societal and social obstacles. Best Fed Beginnings project teams are leading several initiatives to bring awareness to the disparity issue and educate black women about the benefits of breastfeeding. Read More.

Passionate healthcare professionals are in a great position to affect policy through advocacy. Advocacy work doesn’t have to be difficult or time consuming. A little education and effort can go a long way. Here are five quick steps to becoming an effective health policy advocate. Read More.

A patient should always be seen as more than a cluster of symptoms. For patients with special healthcare needs, a holistic view is even more critical. That’s why teams in NICHQ’s autism project helped develop the “This Is Me” tool, which is specially designed to help caregivers get to know patients both personally and medically. Read More.