DPH Thanks Community Health Workers for Commitment to Communities

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Aug. 28, 2024

COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina Community Health Worker Appreciation Day is Aug. 28, and the South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) is recognizing the significant contributions that Community Health Workers (CHWs) make in improving the health of communities across the state.  

Community Health Worker Appreciation Day is observed during South Carolina Community Health Worker Awareness Week, which is celebrated Aug. 25-31 to recognize and commend CHWs for their dedicated service to underserved and high-need communities.  

DPH currently employees 28 CHWs across the state, including frontline public health workers and managers. The agency’s CHWs work to connect community members to appropriate health education and information, give social support and informal counseling, and understand and champion the health needs of individuals and communities around the state. 

“We are extremely fortunate to have exceptional CHWs working directly with South Carolinians to help them navigate the health care system,” said Dr. Edward Simmer, interim DPH director. “Our CHWs serve as a link between the community and their health care and social service needs, and we extend our gratitude to them for their commitment to improving the health and well-being of individuals and communities in need.” 

At DPH, CHWs most often work in underserved communities, including communities in both urban and rural areas as well as tribal lands. CHWs often work with people have limited financial resources, have limited or no transportation options, do not speak English fluently, have specific health conditions, and lack access to quality health care services.  

CHWs increase DPH’s reach to groups of people historically denied access to health care and other critical aspects of society, assisting DPH with its goal of addressing the Social Determinants of Health and eliminating health disparities.   

Through their work in the community, CHWs also help strengthen collaboration between DPH and community organizations. They establish peer-to-peer relationships with community partners, providing the agency with a direct link to community resources.  

To learn more about DPH’s Community Health Workers, visit the DPH website.  

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