Prisma Health’s Community Care program assists vulnerable patients after hospital stay

Program trains and assigns volunteers to provide nonmedical help

GREENVILLE, S.C.—Prisma Health is seeking service volunteers for Community Care, a program providing assistance to recently discharged patients who are vulnerable or with chronic conditions needing nonmedical help to remain safe and well at home. Volunteers are needed in Upstate and Midlands communities. Both individuals and groups may receive training to provide volunteer service hours and ongoing support to participate in a variety of ways. COVID-19 safety precautions are required to protect volunteers and patients.

“Social isolation adds to the challenges for vulnerable patients and those with chronic conditions. This was also true before the pandemic and we are committed to addressing this unmet need in our communities,” said Suzanne Young, Prisma Health Community Care program coordinator. “We’re excited to offer this fulfilling service opportunity for community organizations, faith groups and individuals.” This Prisma Health program receives grant support from The Duke Endowment.

Community Care pairs recently discharged Prisma Health patients who qualify for assistance with trained volunteers for help with specific needs, such as phone check-ins, errands, household chores, meals, transportation, visits and yardwork. Volunteers must complete training and a background check.

Maria, a Midlands participant, said, “I love this service. It’s so good to have someone to talk to. I would recommend this program to others.” After she was recently discharged from the hospital, Maria was matched with a trained volunteer who calls or visits her weekly to check on how she is doing at home. “I look forward to our talks each week. If I have a difficulty, it’s reassuring to know they will follow up to make sure I’m okay.”

To learn more about volunteer opportunities with Community Care, visit PrismaHealth.org/CommunityCare, call 864-884-3792 or email CommunityCare@PrismaHealth.org.

About Prisma Health

Prisma Health is a not-for-profit health company and the largest healthcare system in South Carolina. With nearly 30,000 team members, 18 hospitals, 2,947 beds and more than 300 physician practice sites, Prisma Health serves more than 1.2 million unique patients annually. Its goal is to improve the health of all South Carolinians by enhancing clinical quality, the patient experience and access to affordable care, as well as conducting clinical research and training the next generation of medical professionals. For more information, visit PrismaHealth.org.