The Detroit Wayne County Health Authority was established by Governor Jennifer Granholm in 2003, with the recommendation of the Wayne County Stabilization Work Group, in response to clear indications of a health care safety net crisis in Detroit and Wayne County. The Health Authority was created by an Interlocal Agreement between the City of Detroit, the County of Wayne, and the Michigan Department of Community health under the Urban Cooperation Act of 1967. The agreement was approved by Detroit City Council and the Wayne County Board of Commissions and signed in 2004. The agreement enables the Health Authority to serve the needs of the uninsured and underinsured in Detroit and Wayne County.

Mission
Coordinate efforts to meet the health needs of the uninsured and underinsured residents in the City of Detroit and Wayne County by assuring access and improving the health status of all people.


Vision
Create an organization recognized locally, statewide and nationally for its ability to develop and sustain an effective safety net service delivery system for the uninsured and underinsured populations of the City of Detroit and Wayne County.

This will be accomplished through the coordination of primary care and preventive health services; the establishment of “medical home” providers to assure continuity of care to residents regardless of where they live; the maximization of private and public resources, and the cooperation and collaboration of all stakeholders on health services and public health issues.

Values
Access: Assure access and provide a full range of care to all populations, including targeted groups and those most vulnerable, in a culturally competent manner.

Accountability: Monitor and report regularly on the effectiveness and financial status of
the safety net, seeking community feedback and input in the planning and implementation process.

Diversity: Promote social justice, equity, and inclusiveness in health services,    employment and governance.

Partnership: Develop and maintain relationships that encourage the participation of all community stakeholders, including government, healthcare providers, the faith community, business, labor and consumers.

Prevention: Eliminate health disparities and improve the health status of Detroit and Wayne county residents through early intervention and education.