South Arkansas Regional Hosptial is launching a new program to help South Arkansas residents.
A Facebook post on the hosptial's website states, "South Arkansas Regional Hospital (SARH) is proud to announce the launch of its Community Health Worker (CHW) Program, supported by grants from organizations like the American Heart Association, the University of Arkansas Medical Sciences (UAMS), and the Arkansas Rural Health Partnership (ARHP). This program exemplifies SARH's commitment to improving health outcomes and addressing the unique needs of rural Arkansas."
The program includes four CHWs:
Kizzie Nelson promotes heart health by visiting rural communities, teaching blood pressure monitoring, sharing healthy eating tips, and providing hands-on CPR demonstrations. Seven HeartCorps positions will be utilized in Arkansas for 2025, and 72 will be nationwide.
Keano Bershell connects individuals to health and social services through UAMS, advocating for community needs and helping navigate the healthcare system.
Terrill Miller, with ARHP, focuses on social determinants of health, providing referrals, education, care coordination, and data collection to shape health programs.
Karla Knapp, at SARH's Women's Center, bridges the gap between patients, providers, and social services, ensuring women and children receive essential care and resources.
By addressing social determinants of health and fostering collaboration, SARH's CHW Program aims to build healthier, more equitable communities in South Arkansas.