GHP Spotlight of the Month: Health Navigation and WISEWOMAN

During the month of March, we will be spotlighting GHP’s Health Navigation and WISEWOMAN programs. The role of the Health Navigation program is to break down barriers and help patients access community resources for disease management, education, and important lifestyle choices. The Health Navigation team is comprised of three RN’s, totaling over 97 years of nursing experience. There is no cost for the services provided by this program.

Our Health Navigation team can assist GHP members with:

• Identifying healthcare needs
• Disease education
• Obtaining Diabetic monitoring supplies
• Prescription assistance
• Nutrition support
• Quit smoking support
• Exercise resources

WISEWOMAN

Since 1987, March has been considered “National Women’s History Month”. This month-long celebration honors the accomplishments of women throughout history. It is also a time to draw attention to health issues that impact women every day. For example, did you know that heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the United States? Regular exercise and a healthy diet are important for heart health; however, it can sometimes be difficult to get started.

The WISEWOMAN program helps women in Genesee County and the City of Flint to navigate health barriers and lower their risk of heart disease and/or stroke with healthy lifestyle behavior changes. Women ages 40-64 who meet the income guidelines listed on the GHP website are eligible. In addition to the WISEWOMAN program, those who are eligible are welcome to participate in our healthy lifestyle programs:

• Free health screenings
• Free health coaching
• Cooking matters classes
• Diabetes prevention
• Quit smoking support
• TOPS (Taking off Pounds Sensibly)

Jennifer Braden

Health Navigation Coordinator

Jennifer began her career at GHP as the Health Navigation Coordinator in August 2021. Her favorite part about working in health navigation is assisting clients; 

whether that be by answering a question about a client’s co-pay, helping clients understand their health issues, or suggesting healthy ways for clients to improve

 their lifestyle and ultimately their quality of life. Jennifer believes that to be a health navigator you must have a passion for helping clients understand their health conditions while also suggesting ways to improve their health and overall quality of life.

A fun fact about Jennifer is that she loves being in the water! Jennifer grew up in Hale, Michigan on Long Lake, and spends most of her free time on one of her two jet skis.

Melisa Shafer

Women’s Health Coach and Navigator

Melisa began her career at GHP as an intern five years ago, leading to her current role as GHP’s Women’s Health Coach. Melisa’s favorite part about working as a women’s health coach is seeing her clients make changes in their lives to better their health while also being excited about those changes. Melisa’s advice for women interested in joining the WISEWOMAN program is to focus on one thing at a time, do not overwhelm yourself, and do not give up! 

A fun fact about Melisa is that she has been riding motorcycles for fourteen years!