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Published on April 24, 2024

Tidelands Health receives grant to help uninsured, underinsured more easily access health care

Tidelands Health’s efforts to help uninsured and underinsured residents access needed health care have received a financial boost from a North Carolina foundation striving to improve the human condition.

Tidelands Health with MUSC logoThe Leon Levine Foundation awarded a multi-year grant totaling $225,000 to support the health system’s Tidelands Community Care Network, a collaborative of agencies dedicated to coordinating care resources for residents in Horry and Georgetown counties who don’t have health insurance or are underinsured.

“The Leon Levine Foundation’s ongoing support of Tidelands Community Care Network helps us make a difference in the lives of our neighbors,” said Kelly Thompkins, senior director of community health resources at Tidelands Health. “Through this generous grant, our network will be able to reach even more residents who need assistance in accessing medical care and finding other support to help improve their overall health.”

Tidelands Health, in partnership with AccessHealth SC and The Duke Endowment, created Tidelands Community Care Network in 2012 to break down barriers to medical care for uninsured and underinsured adults.

Since its inception, Tidelands Community Care Network has served nearly 8,600 individuals living in Horry and Georgetown counties by connecting them with primary care, specialty care, affordable medication, behavioral health care, food and housing support. The network also offers health education resources and programs such as a diabetes prevention program to help people live better lives through better health.

With nearly 50 partner agencies and organizations, Tidelands Community Care Network helps remove barriers such as lack of transportation to needed care. One of the network’s greatest community benefits is its role as a facilitator, helping foster partnerships and increase cross-sector collaboration. The result is stronger links within the community that lead to integrated care and better health outcomes.

“The Leon Levine Foundation is proud to continue its support for Tidelands Community Care Network. This specialized resource is essential for the people of Horry and Georgetown counties to be connected with quality care close to the communities where they live and work,” said Tom Lawrence, president and CEO of The Leon Levine Foundation.

Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, The Leon Levine Foundation was created in 1980 by the founder and chairman emeritus of Family Dollar Stores Inc. and supports programs and organizations that improve the human condition. Health care and human services are two key areas the foundation supports through investments in non-profits across the Carolinas with strong leadership and a track record of success.

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Tidelands Health, in collaboration with MUSC Health, is the region’s largest health care provider, serving the Carolinas at four hospitals and more than 70 outpatient locations. More than 2,500 employee, physician and volunteer partners work side by side with our communities to transform the health of our region – promoting wellness, preventing illness, encouraging recovery and restoring health.