The Arkansas Center for Health Improvement (ACHI) was formed in 1998 as an innovative solution to the health crisis faced by Arkansas.  Data show that Arkansans consistently fall well below national health standards – they have high numbers of uninsured, lack access to quality health care and face racial health disparities.  Many adults and children also have unhealthy lifestyles and behaviors that significantly contribute to the crisis.

ACHI believes that Arkansans’ poor health status will not improve until root causes are addressed and health policies and initiatives that alter behaviors and measurably improve health are established statewide.  Working with public- and private-sector partners, ACHI is a catalyst for improving the health of Arkansans through evidence-based research, public issue advocacy, and collaborative program development.

Since its inception, ACHI has become a trusted health policy leader, receiving both state and national recognition for its efforts to continue debate, dialogue, and development of strategies that advance the health and productivity of Arkansas residents.