CareSource’s Digital Engagement Strategy Reduces Health Disparities

CareSource prioritizes meeting members where they are to improve their health outcomes and recognizes that many of our members are at disproportionate risk for poor health outcomes because of demographic and/or social factors. In an effort to improve access to health information, CareSource leverages a digital engagement strategy that emphasizes improved access for our members.

The My CareSource Member Portal and the CareSource Mobile Application, available in iOS and Google Play, are secure tools offered without additional cost to all CareSource members who have access to digital devices like laptops, desktops, tablets and smartphones. 

Both tools give members the ability to securely access key information and tasks to improve their health care outcomes. The portal and the app use intelligent design to target information specific to the member. For example, members can arrange an online doctor visit using Teladoc, talk to a nurse hotline 24 hours a day / 7 days a week and find rewards and resources.

CareSource provides members with access the information they need the most on the go since the vast majority of U.S. adults own smartphone. CareSource’s digital engagement team uses industry best practices like the 508© compliance guidelines as well as monthly surveys of user groups to ensure our digital tools that are easy to use and offer the best features.

Beyond smartphones, CareSource research has revealed that a portion of members also use computers at local public libraries to log into the My CareSource Member Portal. That finding solidified what the COVID-19 pandemic has already highlighted: access to safe, reliable broadband internet impacts health outcomes.

CareSource is addressing this emerging social determinant of health often referred to as the “digital divide.” In Dayton, we committed $400,000 to support the long-term sustainability of the award-winning Dayton-Montgomery County Digital Equity Initiative. Additionally, CareSource donated $1 million to improve Appalachia residents’ access to digital resources, including the installation of building-wide internet service, individual unit Wi-Fi hotspots, dedicated space for telehealth services and other supportive opportunities. We’re even sure the computers our employees no longer use are given to members of the community who need them most.

CareSource considers health equity a collective responsibility and empowers individuals in every area of the organization to bring a spirit of innovation in how we improve the health and well-being of our members.