News

By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC

Palmetto Care Connections (PCC) is helping bring health care closer to home for rural South Carolinians. On March 20th, PCC’s Carolina Warren visited the Newberry County Office on Aging to install a new telemedicine cart and train staff on how to assist with virtual health visits.

Telemedicine carts are mobile platforms equipped for live video conferencing between patients and providers. This technology allows seniors to meet with doctors and specialists without leaving their local center—saving time, travel, and stress.

The project was made possible through funding from the South Carolina Center for Rural and Primary Healthcare and in partnership with the South Carolina Department on Aging.

With this installation, the Office on Aging team is now equipped to support telehealth visits, expanding access to care for older adults in Newberry County.

By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC

National Physicians’ Week (March 25-31) is a great time to recognize the dedication, expertise, and compassion of doctors across the country. These healthcare professionals work tirelessly to keep communities healthy, often going above and beyond to ensure patients receive quality care. At Palmetto Care Connections (PCC), we’re especially proud to support and work alongside physicians who are passionate about improving healthcare access, especially in South Carolina’s rural and underserved areas. Their commitment makes a real difference in ensuring patients in even the most remote locations can get the care they need.

In rural communities, physicians take on many roles—not just as primary care providers but often as specialists and trusted community health advocates. With fewer resources and staff, they juggle heavy patient loads while still maintaining top-quality care. Many are turning to telehealth and digital innovations to reach more patients, reduce travel burdens, and make healthcare more accessible. PCC is honored to support these efforts by helping expand broadband access, advancing telehealth initiatives, and providing physicians with the tools they need to deliver care efficiently.

Even with their dedication, physicians face plenty of challenges—long hours, administrative hurdles, and workforce shortages, just to name a few. Those in rural areas often deal with extra obstacles, such as fewer specialists, limited financial resources, and outdated infrastructure. Their resilience is inspiring, as they continue to serve their communities with compassion and commitment. PCC is dedicated to advocating for policies and programs that ease these burdens, creating solutions that allow physicians to focus on what they do best—caring for patients.

This week is a perfect opportunity to show appreciation for the physicians who make a difference in our lives. A simple thank-you note, a social media shoutout, or sharing a positive healthcare experience can go a long way. Physicians play an invaluable role in our healthcare system, and their hard work deserves recognition not just this week, but every day. PCC remains committed to supporting them, pushing for better healthcare solutions, and making sure rural communities continue to receive the high-quality medical care they deserve. Happy National Physicians’ Week!

By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC

At Palmetto Care Connections, we’re all about bridging gaps and building connections. This week, we’re spotlighting Ashlee Parra, our Digital Literacy Program Manager. 

Ashlee leads our Digital Literacy Program, teaching community members essential digital skills and helping them find affordable internet access. “We help people build digital confidence and a comfort level with accessing healthcare through telehealth services,” she says. Seeing people gain independence—like a participant realizing they no longer have to rely on their grandchild for help—is what makes her job so rewarding. 

With 25 years in the nonprofit sector, Ashlee was inspired to join PCC through her late father, Dr. Foster, a former board member. Growing up in a rural area and having a mother with MS, she understands firsthand the critical need for telehealth. “There are individuals who cannot drive to the doctor or are immunocompromised,” she explains. 

For Ashlee, the best part of her work is watching people’s confidence grow. “You can see their self-esteem rise as they leave class with their certificate,” she says. She lives by Desmond Tutu’s words: “Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.” 

Outside of work, Ashlee has a love for history—whether it’s fossils, antiques, or hunting for shark’s teeth along the coast. Her dedication to helping others, both professionally and personally, makes her an invaluable part of the PCC team! 

#MakingConnectionsMonday #DigitalInclusion #PCCSpotlight 

By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC

Every year on March 18, the world comes together to recognize Global Recycling Day, a movement dedicated to promoting recycling as a key pillar in preserving our planet’s resources. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainability and the collective action required to create a healthier environment for future generations.

Sustainability isn’t just about reducing waste—it’s about ensuring that our communities have access to the resources and services they need to thrive. From healthcare to technology, responsible recycling practices contribute to a more sustainable future in every industry.

The Importance of Recycling in Healthcare & Technology

Recycling plays a crucial role in healthcare and technology sectors, where electronic waste (e-waste) and medical materials must be disposed of responsibly. Many healthcare devices and digital tools contain components that can be repurposed, reducing environmental impact while ensuring that valuable materials don’t go to waste. By implementing recycling initiatives, organizations can help lower pollution, conserve natural resources, and promote a healthier environment.

Small Steps, Big Impact

On Global Recycling Day, PCC encourages individuals and businesses to take simple yet impactful steps toward sustainability:

• Recycle Electronic Devices – Properly dispose of outdated or broken electronics through certified recycling programs.
• Reduce Paper Waste – Opt for digital records and communication whenever possible to minimize paper consumption.
• Support Local Recycling Efforts – Participate in community recycling programs and educate others on best practices.

This Global Recycling Day, let’s work together to build a healthier, more sustainable future—one small action at a time.

By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC

At Palmetto Care Connections, every team member brings unique skills and passion to the mission of connecting rural and underserved communities with vital healthcare resources. One of those incredible individuals is Ramona Midkiff, our Multimedia Designer, whose creativity and compassion light up every project she touches.

In her role, Ramona creates and designs visual content for PCC’s social media campaigns, websites, and marketing materials. From videos and animations to print pieces and interactive graphics, she brings ideas to life using her expertise. She also plays a key role in planning for our annual Telehealth Summit, creating all the signage and making sure the registration process is smooth.

But beyond her technical skills, Ramona’s heart for the community sets her apart. One of her most memorable experiences at PCC was working on the Digital Literacy Program Pilot. Through this initiative, she connected directly with participants, getting to know them on a personal level and helping them navigate digital tools. “They were so very appreciative and thankful,” Ramona recalls. “You think you are there to help them, but actually, you get more out of it than they do. Knowing you’ve made a difference is an incredibly rewarding experience.”

Ramona’s own experiences growing up in a rural area fuel her passion for PCC’s mission. “I was inspired to join PCC because they look out for people living in rural and underserved areas,” she explains. “I’ve experienced those struggles firsthand. I wanted to work with an organization that truly cares and makes a difference.” Since joining PCC, Ramona has found herself surrounded by a team that shares her values. “Everyone here works together for the greater good, and they care about you not just at work, but in life. Our team ROCKS!”

Her faith and positivity guide her both personally and professionally. Inspired by Matthew 5:16—“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven”—Ramona strives to see the best in people and treat others with kindness and respect. She believes in the power of serving others and making a positive impact.

Outside of work, Ramona’s heart for community continues. Alongside cherishing time with her family, she’s deeply involved in POIEMA Ministry, a women’s group focused on supporting and uplifting one another through faith. “POIEMA means ‘God’s masterpiece’ in Greek,” she shares. “We come together from different backgrounds to walk through life’s journey and support each other in love and faith.”

Ramona is more than a Multimedia Designer—she’s a storyteller, a connector, and a beacon of light at PCC. Through her creativity and compassion, she helps bring our mission to life, ensuring every project reflects the heart of our work and the community we serve.

By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC

At Palmetto Care Connections (PCC), we believe that access to safe, high-quality healthcare is a fundamental right for all South Carolinians, no matter where they live. Patient Safety Awareness Week, led by the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), serves as a vital reminder of the importance of safety in every healthcare interaction—whether in person or through telehealth.

The Importance of Patient Safety

Issues like medication mix-ups, communication breakdowns, and lack of access to timely care can all put patients at risk. For rural communities, these challenges are often magnified by provider shortages and geographic barriers.

Through telehealth and digital health innovations, PCC is committed to bridging these gaps and ensuring that rural patients receive safe, effective care.  Whether it’s supporting providers with secure telemedicine platforms or educating patients on how to navigate virtual care safely, our mission is to enhance both access and safety in healthcare.

How We Can All Contribute to Patient Safety

• Healthcare Providers can enhance patient safety by utilizing telehealth to expand access to specialists, ensuring clear communication during virtual visits, and implementing best practices for digital health security.
• Patients and Families can take an active role in their care by asking questions, verifying medications, and using reliable telehealth services to avoid unnecessary hospital visits.
• Healthcare Organizations can strengthen patient safety by investing in training, technology, and community partnerships to deliver high-quality care across all settings.

At PCC, we are proud to support efforts that promote safer, more connected care for rural and underserved communities. This Patient Safety Awareness Week, we encourage everyone—patients, providers, and healthcare leaders—to work together toward a future where every patient receives safe, effective, and accessible healthcare.

For more information, visit the Institute for Healthcare Improvement.

Link: https://www.ihi.org/networks/initiatives/patient-safety-awareness-week