CareSouth Carolina Celebrates National Community Health Worker Awareness Week

CareSouth Carolina is proud to recognize the first-ever National Community Health Worker Awareness Week (NCHWAW), a nationwide campaign celebrating the vital role of Community Health Workers (CHWs) in improving health outcomes and strengthening communities.

CHWs serve as a bridge between patients and the healthcare system, ensuring that no one is left behind due to barriers like transportation, financial strain, or lack of resources. According to the National Academy of Medicine, 80 percent of health outcomes are shaped by what happens outside of the clinical setting. That’s where CHWs step in—addressing social drivers of health and helping patients overcome challenges that can stand in the way of medical care.

“Our CHWs are the heartbeat of our community,” said Ann Lewis, CEO of CareSouth Carolina. “They rise every day to meet people where they are, offering compassion, advocacy, and guidance that transforms lives.”

The Work of CHWs at CareSouth Carolina

CareSouth Carolina’s CHWs serve in many roles—including Patient Advocates, Outreach Specialists, Community Navigators, and Bilingual Agricultural Specialists—under the Family Support Services team. They provide:

• Assistance navigating complex healthcare and social service systems
• Health screenings at community events and fairs
• Educational sessions on diabetes, nutrition, and mental health
• Coordination with local organizations to connect patients with vital resources
• Support for patients facing barriers such as transportation, food insecurity, and housing challenges

From the moment a patient enters a CareSouth Carolina office to the time prescriptions are filled and everything in between, CHWs are present to identify needs, provide encouragement, and connect individuals to resources that can change the course of their health journey.

“Our Community Health Workers touch nearly every part of CareSouth Carolina,” said Joe Bittle, Chief of Community Health. “They are advocates, problem solvers, and trusted guides who make sure patients don’t fall through the cracks. We are honored to celebrate their leadership and impact.”

Why CHWs Matter

CHWs aren’t just part of the workforce—they’re part of the communities they serve. They use their own lived experiences and cultural understanding to help patients make healthier choices, gain access to care, and find hope during difficult times. Whether it’s arranging transportation for a doctor’s visit, helping families apply for assistance programs, or simply offering a listening ear, CHWs embody CareSouth Carolina’s mission to provide not just healthcare, but true community care.

“CareSouth Carolina is honored to be recognized for the collaboration we do to expand access to care,” Bittle added. “We look forward to continuing this work as we serve the needs of our patients and communities.”