What is the Dovetail Program?
Dovetail is a referral-based Community Health Worker (CHW) program that is integrated into Community Health Centers of Lane County. The goals of the Dovetail Program are to strengthen patients’ abilities to address life challenges through short-term, goal-oriented support; to connect patients to community resources, help them navigate systems, and overcome barriers to access services.
Our short-term program generally focuses on addressing 1 – 2 specific goals with participants, and we meet with our participants by appointment in clinic or at community locations. CHWs work collaboratively with patients to address social barriers to health, support them in staying on track with their identified goals, and build their skills to navigate systems independently. Success depends on the patient’s active participation and commitment to the process.
If you have been referred to Dovetail by your primary care provider, you will work directly with a CHW for up to ten 1-hour visits. Your Dovetail CHW will support you in setting goals, building skills, and accessing available community resources to reach those goals. Currently, our program does not have any special access to resources beyond what is available in the community. Nor are we able to assist in crises or time-sensitive situations.
CHWs are currently integrated into the following clinics: Brookside, Charnelton, Delta Oaks, RiverStone, South Lane, and West 11th.
What is a Community Health Worker and what can they do?
A Community Health Worker (CHW) is a trusted member of the community who empowers individuals through education and connection to social services and community resources. CHWs work in health systems with the goal to improve both individual and community well-being.
CHWs are uniquely qualified to do this important work due to their abilities to:
- Build strong, trusting relationships.
- Bring their lived experiences and deep understanding of their communities and cultures into their work.
- Empower Through Education and Advocacy
- Provide culturally appropriate education, coaching, and support to build patients’ skills and confidence in managing their goals.
- Act as advocates to ensure equitable access to social services and community resources.
- Serve as a bridge between patients, providers, and agencies to improve understanding, access, and follow-through. Assist patients in understanding forms and processes to help patients gain independence.
Have you worked with Dovetail and want to provide feedback on the program? Share your opinions here: English Español
Have questions about Dovetail? Reach out to us by phone 541-682-1943 or email [email protected].