Community programs and organizations that can support or expand a health system's care for chronically ill patients and prevention strategies are often overlooked. To improve the health of the population, health care organizations reach out to form powerful alliances and partnerships with state programs, local agencies, schools, faith organizations, businesses, and clubs.

Linkages between health clinics and community resources such as health departments, churches, senior centers, and YMCA/YWCAs are crucial to the success of comprehensive chronic illness care programs. Clinics form partnerships with community organizations to develop evidence-based programs, resources, and health policies that support patients in their efforts to manage chronic disease. Clinics with strong linkages to the community make special efforts to coordinate chronic illness guidelines, measures, and resources throughout the community. Clinics that make these important links to community resources improve patient care and outcomes and enable communities and patients to take an active role in managing chronic illness.