At MetroHealth, every child is screened for lead exposure—an essential safeguard in a region that holds the unfortunate distinction of having some of the highest lead poisoning rates in the nation. But detection is only the beginning of a much bigger journey, and that’s where Community Health Worker (CHW) Alia steps in.
Once a blood test reveals elevated lead levels, the results are routed to the designated lead tracking system in Epic, the electronic health record platform. For levels above 10 µg/dL, Lori—a key partner in the pediatric team—springs into action. She reviews the child’s chart, reaches out to the family, provides lead education, and schedules a visit with the pediatric lead clinic. There, a multidisciplinary team of physicians, case managers, and dietitians works in tandem to care for the child and guide the family forward.
At the clinic, families don’t just receive a diagnosis—they receive tools for change. They’re given lead cleaning kits, trained on what signs to look for in their home environment, and advised on nutrition to reduce lead absorption. Providers emphasize the benefits of multivitamins and iron-rich foods to protect growing bodies. For children with slightly elevated levels (3.5–3.9 µg/dL), the care team continues follow-up, with Lori reinforcing guidance through mailed instructions.
Alia and Lori coordinate rechecks to ensure families don’t miss critical follow-up testing. For patients on Medicaid or those from high-risk ZIP codes, Alia proactively calls, making sure families stay connected to care. If a child misses an appointment, follow-up is immediate—Alia and team’s commitment doesn’t waver.
Alia’s role extends deep into the community. As a social determinants of health navigator, she helps families access legal resources to fix hazardous homes or move to safer housing if necessary.
In addition to helping patients navigate remediation resources, MetroHealth’s CHW team also brings care into neighborhoods by hosting regular community lead testing events. Using a portable lead analyzer, the team can check a child’s lead level with just a finger prick and a few drops of blood. Results are ready in under three minutes—making it possible to begin patient education right away. These events are vital touchpoints, where trust, access, and prevention converge.
These CHWs are more than educators—they’re champions for community and health. Lead exposure doesn’t occur in isolation; it’s rooted in deeper struggles with poverty, aging infrastructure, and limited housing options. The CHW team sees that reality firsthand—and they meet it with compassion and tenacity.
Through initiatives like the Lead Safe Cleveland Coalition, Lead in the Land and MetroHealth’s lead education video, public awareness continues to grow. Because of these dedicated efforts, 79% of MetroHealth pediatric patients are tested for lead by age two. That number represents more than a policy—it’s a promise. A promise to protect, to educate, and to keep showing up until every child has the safe environment they deserve.