Drop in ER Visits in OC

One factor used in determining health care coverage is the number of emergency room visits.  The thought being that people with access to doctors will not go to the emergency room when they are sick, instead they will see their primary care physician.  A new program at Oconee Medical Center is aimed at helping the uninsured and cut down on the number of non-emergency visits to the emergency room.  Mountain Lakes Access Health launched in March and executive director Cortni Nations says early figures show the program is paying dividends.  “We know that it is working.  The SC Office of Research and Statistics continuously pulls our data.  Recently our date showed that there was an 80% decline in emergency department visits amongst our participants, which is incredible.  That means they are getting access to appropriate care in a timely manner and they are getting well and that is what we are here for.” The program funded by a non-profit, private endowment is free to uninsured people who qualify.  Participants come to the Access Health office at Oconee Medical Center and receive help finding a doctor and getting cheaper prescription medicines.  Staff members also help participants set health care and financial goals, providing education on proper diet and exercise, adds Nations.  “It is not enough just to give a patient a prescription and a doctor’s appointment.  We know with the research that is out there today, that is simply not enough, they have to know how to manage their own health, how to be advocates for themselves, how to make their own appointments, and so that is what our case management staff does.” In addition to being uninsured, there are certain age and income requirements as well to be a client of Mountain Lakes Access Health.  You have to be a resident of Oconee County or Clemson, Central or Six Mile to participate. Call (864) 885-7341 for more information. The program also needs volunteers and donations.