By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC
In February 2025, Palmetto Care Connections (PCC) CEO Kathy Schwarting and Chief Technology Officer Matt Hiatt traveled to Washington, D.C., to attend the National Rural Health Association’s (NRHA) Policy Institute. This annual event is a crucial opportunity for rural health leaders to engage with policymakers, discuss pressing healthcare challenges, and advocate for legislative solutions that support rural communities.
A United Front for Rural Healthcare
PCC didn’t work alone to advocate for causes in Washington. Kathy and Matt were members of a broader coalition in South Carolina that includes Allendale County Hospital, the South Carolina Office of Rural Health, the Rural Research Center, and the South Carolina Center for Rural and Primary Healthcare.
Together, this group worked to ensure that South Carolina’s rural communities had a strong voice on Capitol Hill, meeting with key lawmakers to discuss critical healthcare policies and funding needs.
One of the key highlights of PCC’s trip was meeting with South Carolina’s Congressional members to share firsthand stories about the impact of federal programs on rural healthcare. The group met with Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC) and Tim Scott (R-SC), as well as Congressmen Jim Clyburn (D-SC), Joe Wilson (R-SC),, Russell Fry (R-SC), Ralph Norman (R-SC), along with Congresswoman Nancy Mace (R-SC) and Sheri Biggs (R-SC). These discussions emphasized the urgent need for continued investments in rural healthcare, particularly in broadband infrastructure, workforce development, and financial support for rural hospitals and clinics.
Advocating for the Health Care Connect Fund
A major focus of PCC’s advocacy in Washington was meeting with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Commissioner to discuss the Health Care Connect Fund (HCF), which helps healthcare providers access affordable broadband services. PCC was joined by Lari Gooding, CEO of Allendale County Hospital, who shared a compelling example of the program’s impact.
Gooding explained that his Critical Access Hospital has saved over $500,000 in the last ten years thanks to HCF support and PCC’s work in securing funding. These savings have allowed Allendale County Hospital to invest in telehealth services, upgrade technology, and improve patient care in one of South Carolina’s most rural regions.
PCC’s trip to Washington, D.C., reinforced the importance of continued advocacy for rural healthcare solutions. As Congress considers policies that will impact rural hospitals, clinics, and patients, PCC remains committed to ensuring South Carolina’s rural communities have a voice in the national conversation.
