Scotland Health Hosts Community Health Advisory Board Meeting Focused on Access to Care, Behavioral Health and Community Resources

Scotland Health representatives joined community leaders, healthcare providers, nonprofit organizations and public health partners on Tuesday at the I. Ellis Johnson Community Center for the Scotland County Community Health Advisory Board meeting, where participants reviewed progress on the county's Community Health Improvement Plan and explored new tools to connect residents with critical health and social services. 

 

The meeting, coordinated through the collaboration between Scotland Health and the Scotland County Health Department, focused on the priorities identified through the county's 2025-2028 Community Health Improvement Plan: access to care, behavioral health, and chronic disease management. 

 

"Our Community Health Advisory Board brings together organizations from across Scotland County to work toward common goals that improve the health and well-being of our residents," said Jamie Cicali, executive director of Population Health for Scotland Health. "The challenges we face are complex, but by working collaboratively, sharing resources and identifying gaps in services, we can make meaningful progress for our community." 

 

During the meeting, participants reviewed findings from the Community Health Needs Assessment and discussed ongoing implementation of the Community Health Improvement Plan. The plan's top priorities include improving access to healthcare through transportation solutions and healthcare access initiatives, addressing mental health and substance use challenges, and reducing chronic disease through education, prevention and improved access to healthy lifestyle resources. 

 

"One of the strongest themes we've seen throughout our Community Health Needs Assessment process is that healthcare extends far beyond the walls of a clinic or hospital," said Cicali. "Transportation, access to food, housing stability, mental health services and other social factors all play a significant role in a person's overall health. By bringing organizations together through the Community Health Advisory Board, we're creating opportunities to better connect residents with resources and build solutions that improve quality of life across Scotland County." 

 

 

A key discussion centered on social drivers of health and the resources available to help residents overcome barriers to care. Representatives from Advocate Health presented information about the FindHelp Community Resource Hub, an online platform that connects individuals and families with community services related to food, housing, transportation, financial assistance, healthcare and behavioral health. The platform also supports a "closed-loop referral" process, allowing healthcare providers and community organizations to track whether residents successfully receive needed services. 

 

Board members also learned about NC Care 360, North Carolina's statewide coordinated care network that connects healthcare providers, community-based organizations and social service agencies through a shared referral system. The platform helps ensure residents can be connected to verified, up-to-date resources throughout the state. 

 

Kim Liles, executive director of the United Way of Scotland County, highlighted the importance of the 211 information and referral service. Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 211 connects callers with support for needs such as housing, food assistance, utility payments, healthcare, childcare, transportation and mental health services. 

 

Participants concluded the meeting with breakout sessions focused on identifying actionable strategies within each priority area and strengthening collaboration among community organizations before the board's next gathering. 

 

Scotland Health and its community partners will continue working through the Community Health Advisory Board to advance the goals outlined in the Community Health Improvement Plan and improve health outcomes for all Scotland County residents.