Our focus  - Transcript

Anne C. Beal, MD, MPH
President, Aetna Foundation, Inc.

We are a national health foundation that strives to advance meaningful change toward improving the quality and cost-effectiveness of health care for everyone, while also promoting access and overall wellness in the communities we serve.

We are excited about the new programs and directions for the Aetna Foundation, which include a greater emphasis on health and health care, a commitment to making grants that improve health across the nation, and a focus on impact and outcomes — so we know our grants are making a difference.

We also support efforts to fight obesity, which every year, contributes to chronic diseases and premature deaths for both children and adults.

For example, through our work with the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center we’re learning how pediatricians’ motivational messages can help children and their families change behaviors, which can lead to lower risk for developing obesity.

We also work with those who are promoting racial and ethnic health care equity by achieving a greater understanding of why disparities exist, and removing barriers to quality care.

As an example, we have recently forged a partnership with Northwestern University Center For Healthcare Equity in Chicago to better understand health care disparities by researching the roles that technology, access, and health literacy can play in eliminating disparities.

And we are advancing an agenda to promote integrated health care that builds on a foundation of strong high-quality primary care, resulting in a patient experience that is well coordinated and seamless, and is cost effective and efficient.

In addition, we sponsor a range of charitable activities that improve the quality of life in communities where Aetna employees and customers live and work.

Enhancing our philanthropic pursuits are Aetna’s employee volunteers, who give generously of their time and money, making a difference every day.

In 2010 and beyond, we’ll continue this important work by focusing our grantmaking in areas that will lead to meaningful improvements in health and the health care system.

We believe we can be a positive force for change, and look forward to new opportunities to help people live full and healthy lives.

Aetna Foundation 2009 Annual Giving Report - Promoting health, creating change

The Aetna Foundation makes a difference across the nation by taking on challenging health issues through grantmaking and partnerships, strengthening communities and advancing diversity.

In 2009, we refocused our grantmaking to support innovative projects and programs that can have significant impact on people's health and can deliver meaningful improvements to the health care system. Our programs focus on:

  • Obesity — To address the rising incidence of obesity among U.S. residents, the Foundation is funding efforts to understand the root causes of obesity, particularly among minority populations, and what may support better choices to stave off overeating and reduce inactivity.
  • Racial and Ethnic Health Care Equity — To promote equity in health and health care for common chronic conditions and infant mortality, the Foundation is funding efforts that identify connections between where people live and receive health care, and the quality and equity of the care they receive.
  • Integrated Health Care — To advance integrated health care, the Foundation is funding efforts that improve coordination and communications among health care professionals, create informed and involved patients, and promote cost-effective, affordable care — centered on strong primary care.

The Aetna Foundation is proud to partner with national and regional organizations that are laying the groundwork for a more effective health care system and a healthier America.

Click to see 2009 Giving Information