By: Chaunte’ Causey, Communications Manager, PCC
Palmetto Care Connections (PCC) proudly represented South Carolina at the National Digital Inclusion Alliance (NDIA) Net Inclusion Conference, held May 20–22, 2025, in Phoenix, Arizona. The conference welcomed over 800 leaders from across the country—including practitioners, advocates, academics, internet service providers, and policymakers—focused on closing the digital divide and increasing access to technology in underserved communities.
PCC’s Chief Community Relations Officer, Davia Smith, and IT Director of Community Engagement, Liz Saitz, attended the event to share insights and learn from national best practices. Davia also co-presented during the workshop “Building a Digital Health Navigator Program,” highlighting PCC’s leadership in combining digital literacy with access to healthcare in rural areas.
In addition to the co-presentation, Davia and Liz participated in several sessions addressing key issues in digital access, including:
- Applying Systems Thinking to Expanding Computer Ownership
- Bridging Health & Technology
- AI for All: Transforming Digital Skills Training & Navigation
- AI Skills Are Digital Skills
- Outputs vs. Impacts: Measuring Long-Term Success in Expanding Digital Access
These sessions explored evolving strategies around sustainability, funding, outreach in rural and Tribal areas, and integrating AI into efforts to bring more people online and connected.
“Attending Net Inclusion allowed us to bring home new ideas, tools, and energy to further support our communities,” said Smith. “From telehealth to digital literacy, we’re seeing just how essential this work is to improving access to care across South Carolina.”
Since 2016, the Net Inclusion Conference has been a key event for those working to expand digital opportunities. This year’s focus on AI, digital healthcare access, and community-driven programming offered a valuable platform for collaboration and innovation.
