Cherokee Health Systems partners with United Health Foundation to improve access to health care in rural areas
Cherokee Health Systems (CHS) is honored to announce a new partnership with United Health Foundation to expand and enhance a prescription delivery program. This initiative, backed by a three-year, $2.6 million grant, aims to provide older adults, especially those living in remote areas, with better access to essential medications and health care resources. Thus far, 500 patients have enrolled, and the goal is to engage 2,500 over the next three years.
Through this partnership, a team of clinical pharmacists, certified pharmacy technicians and care coordinators deliver medications directly to patients' homes, as well as identify and address unmet social needs that impact their health.
"Creating healthier communities is a team effort. We are honored to be a part of that team with Cherokee Health Systems and help make high-quality health care more accessible," said Ute S., President and CEO, UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of Tennessee.
CHS, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) in the Knoxville, Tenn. area, operates four brick-and-mortar pharmacies across its service area. However, many patients living in rural communities face transportation or financial challenges that limit their access to CHS’ affordable prescriptions and integrated clinical pharmacy services.
Recognizing this gap, CHS piloted a small-scale mail order pharmacy in 2023. Following a successful pilot and with the support of the United Health Foundation grant, CHS launched a scaled prescription delivery program in 2024 that provides older adults in rural areas with consistent access to medications.
The initiative provides health care education and counseling. Patients can meet virtually with a clinical pharmacist to better understand and manage their medications, as well as discuss lifestyle changes to manage chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. Adults 65 and older who enroll with the pharmacy will automatically be scheduled with a clinical pharmacist who works with patients to provide education and help them stay healthy.
At the helm of the program are Dr. Stacy White, director of pharmacy at Cherokee Health Systems, and Dr. Kim Halcomb, a staff pharmacist, both of whom work to ensure patients receive the medications and resources they need.
"We have staffed our pharmacy call center with care coordinators who provide one-on-one attention to patients, schedule clinical pharmacy visits and address issues such as uncontrolled A1C levels, blood pressure, and medication affordability,” said White. “This personalized approach ensures comprehensive care.”
Making a difference
White goes out on deliveries to observe firsthand how the program benefits patients and to identify areas for improvement. He says it’s been a lifeline for those facing financial and transportation barriers.
"I've been a pharmacist for a long time, and it's not enough for a patient to see a provider and get a prescription,” White said. “If they can't get the medication due to financial or transportation barriers, their health won't improve. This partnership and delivery service, especially with the medical management and counseling piece, will make a significant impact on our patients. One patient was in tears when we delivered the medication to their home, relieved they didn't have to choose between gas money and their medication.”
Halcomb also sees how the program is truly making a difference in the communities they serve.
"During a home delivery medicine review, one patient shared how they had been sick for several days and missed doses of their seizure medications because they couldn't drive or afford gas money,” Halcomb said. “They were so thankful and happy to receive their medication without these barriers. This service has been so well received, and our patients are grateful.”
Expected Impact
According to the America’s Health Rankings® 2024 Senior Report, Tennessee ranks 43rd for the health and well-being of its older adult residents. The grant partnership is expected to result in:
- Medications delivered to at least 2,500 older adults.
- Improved health outcomes for chronic conditions.
- Improved medication adherence, with no refill gaps for 25% of patients.
By addressing key drivers of health and improving access to care, the United Health Foundation and Cherokee Health Systems are helping to create better health outcomes and healthier populations in rural communities in Tennessee.
"We feel so much gratitude for the United Health Foundation’s investment. Partnerships like this are critical to serve our families where they are and where they need it most," said Parinda Khatri, PhD, chief executive officer of Cherokee Health Systems.
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About Cherokee Health Systems Since 1960, CHS has been committed to ensuring Tennesseans get access to effective, high-quality care. CHS is a Federally Qualified Health Center that serves 75,000 people annually. We offer a wide array of comprehensive health services, including primary care, behavioral health, dental, and pharmacy. All of our services are available to children, adults, and seniors on an ability-to-pay basis. CHS is a TennCare (Medicaid) and Medicare provider. In addition, CHS accepts commercial insurance for payment.
