News

By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC

High blood pressure—often called the “silent killer”—affects nearly half of all adults in the United States, and many don’t even know they have it. That’s why May is designated as National High Blood Pressure Awareness Month, a time to educate, raise awareness, and encourage everyone to take their heart health seriously.

At Palmetto Care Connections (PCC), we believe knowledge is power—especially when it comes to conditions like high blood pressure that can quietly damage your body for years before symptoms show up. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to life-threatening issues like heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure, but the good news is: it’s manageable with the right support, tools, and treatment.

Talk to Your Doctor—and Stay Connected from Home

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with high blood pressure, start by having an honest conversation with your healthcare provider about Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM). RPM allows patients to check their blood pressure at home using digital devices that automatically send readings to their healthcare team. This keeps your doctor informed in real time and helps them make adjustments to your care plan without waiting for your next office visit.

Remote Patient Monitoring is especially helpful for rural residents who may live far from a clinic or face transportation challenges. It allows you to take control of your health while staying safe and supported at home.

At PCC, we’ve seen firsthand how RPM can improve outcomes and give patients peace of mind. Whether it’s through a digital blood pressure cuff or a connected tablet, technology can be a lifeline for those managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

Don’t Wait—Know Your Numbers

Checking your blood pressure regularly is a simple but powerful step. Normal blood pressure is typically less than 120/80 mm Hg. If your numbers are consistently higher, it’s time to take action. Eating healthier, staying active, reducing stress, and taking prescribed medications all play a part—but technology, like RPM, can help you stick with it.

This month, we’re encouraging all South Carolinians to know their numbers, talk to their doctors, and explore telehealth tools that make managing high blood pressure easier and more effective.

By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC

At Palmetto Care Connections, we’re proud to celebrate National Hospital Week, taking place May 11–17. This week is dedicated to recognizing the hospitals, health systems, and healthcare professionals whose commitment keeps our communities strong, healthy, and connected—especially in South Carolina’s rural and underserved regions.

Hospital workers across the state—whether they’re caring for patients in-person or coordinating virtual care through telehealth—are the backbone of our healthcare system. Their compassion, skill, and innovation make a powerful difference in people’s lives every single day.

We want to give a heartfelt thank you to our partner hospitals who go above and beyond to support rural communities through telehealth and expanded access to care:

• MUSC Health

• Prisma Health

• McLeod Health

• Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System

• Self Regional Healthcare

• Allendale County Hospital

• Hampton Regional Medical Center

• Tidelands Health

• AnMed

• Beaufort Memorial

• Bon Secours St. Francis Health System

• Conway Medical Center

• Lexington Medical Center

These hospitals are not only delivering exceptional care within their facilities—they’re reaching into South Carolina’s most rural, isolated, and medically underserved areas through telehealth, school-based clinics, community outreach, and more. They’re proof that quality care doesn’t have to depend on geography.

This National Hospital Week, we celebrate each person working in hospital care—from doctors and nurses to IT professionals and patient transport teams. Thank you for being champions of innovation, access, and hope for South Carolinians in every corner of the state.

We’re honored to work alongside you in expanding access to care and digital connectivity across South Carolina.

By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC

At Palmetto Care Connections, we know that nurses are the backbone of our healthcare system—and this National Nurses Week, we want to take a moment to celebrate the incredible individuals who make a difference in the lives of patients every single day.

From nurses who work in traditional clinical settings to those who have embraced the evolving world of digital health, we are grateful for every single one. We especially recognize the dedicated nurses across our partner organizations who serve in a wide variety of roles: in offices and clinics, out in the field providing home care, delivering services through telehealth platforms, and supporting patients with remote patient monitoring.

These nurses are on the front lines of rural health, showing up in underserved communities, schools, long-term care facilities, and even patients’ homes. They’re leveraging technology to close gaps in care, improve health outcomes, and build trusted relationships with those they serve—often across miles of distance.

At PCC, we see the critical role nurses play in expanding access to care through innovation and compassion. Whether it’s a school-based telehealth visit, a virtual consultation, or a remote check-in with a chronically ill patient, nurses are leading the charge to make healthcare more accessible and effective.

To every nurse—thank you. Your resilience, empathy, and expertise are the heartbeat of health care across South Carolina. This week, and every week, we honor your commitment and celebrate the impact you make.

Happy National Nurses Week from all of us at Palmetto Care Connections!

Meet Kamryn Coker Williams, our Telehealth Coordinator specializing in Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) at Palmetto Care Connections!

🩺 Kamryn’s role focuses on distributing and educating patients about advanced monitoring tools that help providers make the best decisions for treatment and health outcomes. She also works closely with patients and providers to support healthier lifestyles while assisting with other telehealth services PCC offers.

🤝 One of Kamryn’s proudest moments was helping with PCC’s Telehealth Summit just four months into her role, where she witnessed how a small team created such a successful event.

❤ After years with large corporate companies as an LPN, Kamryn knew PCC was different from her first call with our CEO, Kathy Schwarting. Kamryn says joining this close-knit, supportive work family has been a huge blessing ️.

🧡 For Kamryn, the most rewarding part of her job is building strong relationships with her RPM patients.

Inspired by the mantra, “Enjoy the little things in life because one day you’ll realize they were the big things,” Kamryn brings warmth and care to all she does.

🐕 Outside of work, Kamryn loves helping her dad and brother with their hunting dogs, providing vaccines, grooming, and plenty of TLC 🐾.

By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC

May is National Stroke Awareness Month, and Palmetto Care Connections (PCC) is using this time to raise awareness about stroke prevention and the life-saving role telehealth plays—especially in South Carolina’s rural communities. 

A stroke happens when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, and getting treatment fast is critical. Remember the BE FAST signs: 

• Balance loss 
• Eyesight changes 
• Face drooping 
• Arm weakness 
• Slurred speech 
• Time to call 911 

Rural residents often face challenges getting care, but PCC helps bridge the gap by connecting patients with medical providers through telehealth—getting them the help they need faster. 

PCC also offers digital literacy classes to help people use health tools like blood pressure monitors and telehealth platforms to manage stroke risk. 

This May, learn the signs, share them with others, and take steps to protect your health. 

By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to highlight the importance of emotional well-being and ensure access to care. In South Carolina, telehealth is playing a critical role in expanding mental health services—especially in rural and underserved areas. 

The South Carolina Department of Mental Health operates one of the country’s most robust telepsychiatry programs, providing around 1,550 psychiatric services each month. This initiative makes it easier for individuals to access care without needing to travel long distances. 

The Medical University of South Carolina is also a national leader in telehealth, offering virtual care through its Center for Telehealth. This platform helps patients connect with specialists and mental health professionals across the state. 

Several accessible telehealth options are available in South Carolina: 

• MUSC Health Virtual Care: Free for State Health Plan members, with 24/7 access for mental health and other common concerns. 

• SCDMH Telepsychiatry: Connects patients with psychiatric care providers in real time. 

As we recognize Mental Health Awareness Month, these telehealth tools serve as vital resources for individuals seeking support—ensuring care is just a click away, no matter where you live in South Carolina.