As a provider of local evidence-based health programs for individuals with one or more chronic health conditions, you may frequently ask how to sustain these programs. Financial and programmatic sustainability of these courses is vital to their long-term success. It can be difficult to find funding to support your programs. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) along with the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) published a report earlier this year highlighting some tips for and lessons learned about sustaining community-based health programs. You can read a brief summary of these tips here, or can read the full report here.
NCOA also links to additional funding and sustainability resources here. The Center for Healthy Aging through the NCOA has also recently published an issues brief providing a framework for program sustainability. Additionally, the Center for Healthy Aging has provided a comprehensive library of sustainbility resources.
It may be helpful for your organization or group to consider developing a specific framework that outlines your plan for sustainability. The Missouri Sustainability Toolkit may assist in this planning, specifically through the creation of a Growth Action Plan. If you have questions on how to sustain community-based health programs, it may be beneficial to contact your Regional Arthritis Center coordinator.