Greenville’s Health and Social Needs Addressed by Bon Secours Community Team
Bon Secours St. Francis Health System is dedicated to improving the health of Greenville’s population by actively engaging in community outreach efforts. The health care system’s Community Health Team is committed to addressing the health and social needs of Greenville County, focusing on areas such as access to care and affordable housing.
Wellness Outreach Initiatives
The Bon Secours Wellness Outreach Team, a vital component of the Community Health Team, plays a significant role in enhancing access to care for Greenville’s underserved population, particularly those who are uninsured or underinsured. Throughout the year, the team organizes various health events aimed at helping patients manage their health conditions and avoid unnecessary emergency room visits. These events also provide essential services such as blood pressure screenings and distribution of fresh food to food-insecure families.
The wellness outreach team conducts health events at least once a month in partnership with mobile medical and mammography units. In 2023, the team held four health events specifically tailored to reach the Hispanic population in the Upstate, resulting in numerous positive outcomes:
- 115 attendees receiving free mammograms
- 57 participants receiving care from the mobile medical unit
- 10 community members connected to permanent medical homes
Additionally, the team provided 300 free vision screenings to attendees, offering services in both English and Spanish to cater to the diverse community. With approximately 40% of the team being bilingual, they ensure accessibility to care for all.
Senior Education Programs
In addition to wellness outreach initiatives, the Community Health Team operates LifeWise, an education-outreach program for residents aged 55 and older. LifeWise offers a range of activities and events designed to promote physical, emotional, social, and spiritual wellness among seniors in the community. The program covers topics such as isolation, nutrition, fall prevention, and caregiver workshops.
Partnering with local senior agencies like Senior Action, Meals on Wheels, and the Greenville County Council on Aging, the program aims to provide holistic support for seniors. By promoting “aging in place,” LifeWise helps seniors live independently in their homes as they age, connecting them with resources such as home-repair organizations and meal delivery programs.
Affordable Housing Collaborations
Housing is recognized as a crucial social determinant of health, influencing overall well-being. The Community Health Team collaborates with organizations dedicated to addressing the affordable housing shortage in Greenville County. By partnering with Mercy Housing Southeast, Habitat for Humanity of Greenville County, United Ministries’ Front Porch Housing program, and Rebuild Upstate, Bon Secours supports efforts to reduce housing disparities.
Health care systems advocate for affordable housing solutions by providing health education to residents of affordable housing communities and facilitating access to resources. Bon Secours contributes to improving housing stability in the community through these collaborations.
Team Structure and Continued Impact
The Bon Secours St. Francis Health System’s Community Health Team comprises dedicated members, including licensed social workers, registered nurses, and community navigators. Together, they work tirelessly to address the health and social needs of Greenville’s diverse population.
Looking ahead, the team expresses optimism about the community impact and aims to provide hope and support to individuals facing health challenges. The upcoming 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment will further guide the health system’s initiatives and implementation plan for 2025 to 2027.
Conclusion
Bon Secours St. Francis Health System’s commitment to community outreach and addressing health disparities in Greenville exemplifies their dedication to the well-being of residents. By actively engaging in wellness outreach, senior education programs, and affordable housing collaborations, the health system strives to make a positive impact on the community’s overall health and social needs.
