Breaking Down Barriers to Whole Health
Like all American health care consumers, Alice Walton has witnessed first-hand the need for better processes and health outcomes. Recognizing that systems change in health care is needed, Alice founded the Whole Health Institute in 2019.
of these costs are a result of chronic conditions, like heart disease and diabetes
despite this, the U.S. ranks 54th in the world for life expectancy
health care currently accounts for 17% of U.S. GDP
Breaking Down
Barriers to
Whole Health
Like all American health care consumers, Alice Walton has witnessed first-hand the need for better processes and health outcomes. Recognizing that systems change in health care is needed, Alice founded the Heartland Whole Health Institute in 2019.
17%
health care currently accounts for 17% of U.S. GDP
54th
despite this, the U.S. ranks 54th in the world for life expectancy
75%
of these costs are a result of chronic conditions, like heart disease and diabetes
A Whole-Person
Approach to
Health Care
We have to give people the tools so they can have control of a happy, healthy life.
Alice
A Whole-Person Approach to Health Care
Founded in 2019 by Alice Walton, the nonprofit Heartland Whole Health Institute addresses physical, mental, emotional and social well-being by working with health systems, partners, employers and communities.
The concept of Heartland Whole Health Institute is driven by research revealing that the United States has the highest level of health care spending worldwide and relatively low rankings in overall health. In medicine today, the fee-for-service model pays doctors for each service – creating a reward for number of visits, not for healthy outcomes.
As the pandemic further highlighted inequalities, mental health issues, and the need for a whole-person approach to health care—it also revealed the power of communities to be a force for change.
Based on those learnings, Heartland Whole Health Institute is working with payors, providers and policymakers to transition to a value-based payment system that incentivizes healthy behaviors and improves wellness through a whole health approach.
Construction of a permanent home for Heartland Whole Health Institute is underway on the 120-acre campus of Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art in Bentonville, Arkansas. When completed, the facility will include space for community gatherings and educational programs.
