Primary Health Network Awarded Highmark Foundation Grant to Expand Health IT Outreach and Education
Sharon, PA – Primary Health Network (PHN) has been awarded a significant grant from the Highmark Foundation to enhance its outreach and education efforts in health information technology (IT). This grant will support a new initiative aimed at increasing patient competency in connectivity, devices, and digital skills, crucial for accessing telehealth and other remote health services.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, digitalization has become increasingly integral to healthcare delivery. PHN remains committed to staying at the forefront of these advancements to better serve its patients across 16 counties in Pennsylvania and one in Ohio. The grant will specifically fund the establishment of a Health IT Navigator position, dedicated to educating patients and staff alike on the use of health-related technologies.
Dr. George Garrow, CEO of Primary Health Network, expressed gratitude, stating, "We are deeply grateful to the Highmark Foundation for their generous support of this initiative. This grant represents a pivotal moment for PHN as we continue to adapt to the evolving healthcare landscape. The Health IT Navigator will play a crucial role in ensuring that our patients can easily navigate telehealth services and utilize tools like our Patient Portal for their healthcare needs."
The Health IT Navigator will collaborate closely with PHN's Informatics Department to streamline internal IT support and enhance proficiency in digital tools among patients and staff. This strategic initiative aims to foster greater healthcare accessibility and empower patients to manage their health proactively through technology, aligning with PHN's ongoing commitment to innovation in patient care.
In conclusion, Primary Health Network is excited to embark on its enhanced health IT initiative with support from the Highmark Foundation. This grant will enable PHN to strengthen patient connectivity and digital skills, reinforcing our commitment to advancing healthcare accessibility and patient empowerment in our communities. For more information on PHN’s services, please visit primary-health.net.
About Primary Health Network
Founded with a mission to provide accessible, comprehensive healthcare to underserved communities, Primary Health Network (PHN) has grown into a cornerstone of health services across Pennsylvania and Ohio. As a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), PHN is dedicated to delivering high-quality medical, dental, behavioral health, and supportive services to individuals and families, regardless of their ability to pay.
With over 40 health center locations strategically located in urban and rural areas, PHN serves as a lifeline for many, offering compassionate care and innovative solutions to address the diverse healthcare needs of its patients. By integrating the latest advancements in the healthcare industry, PHN continues to uphold its commitment to patient-centered care, ensuring every individual receives the attention and support they deserve.
For more information about Primary Health Network and its services, visit primary-health.net.
About Highmark Foundation
The Highmark Foundation is a 501 (c)(3) private, charitable organization dedicated to improving the health, wellbeing, and quality of life for individuals who reside in the communities served by Highmark, Inc. and its subsidiaries and affiliates. We fulfill our missing by awarding high-impact grants to charitable organizations that implement evidence-based programs aimed at improving community health. Central to the Foundation’s mission is identifying and continuously reevaluating our region’s prevailing health care needs. By doing so, the Foundation remains at the forefront of those needs, well equipped to pinpoint the issues that more urgently need support.
Additionally, we established two restricted funds in 2021, the Highmark West Virginia Charitable Fund for Health and the United Concordia Dental Charitable Fund, to further support the ongoing work of the Highmark Foundation across its footprint and beyond.
Visit www.highmarkfoundation.org for more information and follow the Highmark Foundation on LinkedIn.
Media Contact: Rebecca Dean, Media and Public Relations Coordinator
Phone: 724-456-3038
Email: rdean@primary-health.net
