The HPI approach to reducing and eliminating health disparities involves identifying the complex underlying causes of health disparities and defining strategies to address these root causes. A growing body of research clearly supports the notion that interventions targeting the social detriments of health can indeed modify patterns of health, illness, and health disparities. Systematic and evidence-based translation of this knowledge into policy and practice has been limited, particularly at the local level.

HPI intends to address this gap with the PLACE MATTERS Initiative in partnership with the W. K. Kellogg Foundation, The California Endowment, the National Association of Counties, the International City/County Management Association, the National Organization of Black County Officials, the National Association of County and City Health Officials, the Henry J. Kaiser Family Foundation, and other partners that will join us on this journey.