GEORGETOWN, SC (WCSC) – Tidal Health recently received a $500,000 grant to continue providing health care to those who need it most and to expand their programs.

The funding comes from the Duke Endowment, a health-focused organization that serves the Carolinas. The two have been partners for about a decade, and this grant will bring in more than $3 million the care provider has received from the organization.

Tidelands Health is using the money to support its community care network. Health care providers such as nurses and social workers and community agencies work together to help patients navigate barriers in the health care system.

Kelly Kaminski of Tidelands Health says a few barriers they’ve identified include a lack of transportation to and from medical appointments, nutritious food, and adequate housing.

So far, the network has been able to provide access to primary care, affordable medicine and dental care to more than 6,000 people, many of whom are uninsured or underinsured.

“The goal is to provide a primary care home for each individual to be established in care,” Kaminski said.

The Community Care Network also focuses on a holistic approach to long-term medical care, pairing patients with dietitians, for example, to create better lifestyle changes.

Anyone under or uninsured can apply by calling the Tidelands Health Charity Office at (843) 520-8586.

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