A $2.6 million grant from the United Health Foundation to Cherokee Health Systems is facilitating the expansion of a prescription delivery program that brings critical medications – and compassionate care – directly to the doorsteps of those who need it most, the older adults in remote areas who are most at risk for missed doses and unmanaged chronic conditions. This is a population forced to make impossible choices between spending money on prescription medication for their health or providing for basic needs.
This grant-supported effort is part of a broader push to improve health outcomes in Tennessee, which currently ranks 43rd in the nation for senior health and well-being according to the America’s Health Rankings 2024 Senior Report.
How this program benefits the community:
- The program is designed to help older adults overcome transportation and financial barriers by delivering prescriptions right to their homes.
- It goes beyond medication by connecting patients with pharmacists for vital counseling, care coordination and health education.
- The program is closing gaps in care by improving medication adherence and addressing social factors that impact health.
Early results are powerful:
- 500 patients are already enrolled and the program aims to reach 2,500 seniors over the next three years.
- One patient cried with relief when their medication arrived – no longer forced to choose between buying gas and staying healthy.
- Another delivery helped a patient avoid dangerous seizures when their medication ran out and they couldn’t leave their house.
More details about the program can be found here.
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