Murrells Inlet, SC (PRESS RELEASE) – Tidelands Health has teamed up with organizations across the state to be a founding partner in a coalition to transform the health of all South Carolinians through strategic, coordinated action on common goals.
The coalition, the Alliance for a Healthier South Carolina, brings together 50 leaders from hospitals, state agencies, consumer associations, insurance companies, the state’s three research universities, businesses and private foundations, among many others.
Bruce Bailey, president and CEO of Tidelands Health, said the alliance has the ability to bring about systemic change and make South Carolina a leader in achieving health equity.
“This is a signal endeavor for our state, and Tidelands Health is proud to be at the forefront of this initiative,” Bailey said. “In South Carolina, we have the commitment, the resources and the leadership to be a model for the nation if we work together.”
Members of the alliance have issued a call to action for health equity that focuses on the role of organizations in helping diverse populations make healthy choices, accessing health and social services and enjoying healthier physical and social environments. The actions include gathering data to identify challenges and develop solutions; developing and maintaining a culture respectful of diversity in organizations; recruiting highly qualified minorities for leadership positions; and engaging the community in creating and implementing sustainable health and health care solutions.
Among the launching partners are the South Carolina Hospital Association, The Duke Endowment, BlueCross BlueShield, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, the University of South Carolina MUSC and Clemson University.