CHERAW, South Carolina — McLeod Health, in partnership with the Pee Dee Council of Governments, was awarded a 2.2 million dollar grant from the U.S. Department of Labor to help address rural health care workforce shortages.

The coronavirus pandemic has increased the need for healthcare workers, particularly in rural communities. Through the expansion of employment and training models for the healthcare industry, the Department’s Employment and Training Administration aims to help individuals gain the skills necessary to provide needed services, fill vacancies and allow employers to find skilled workers more readily.

“The underserved rural areas of South Carolina are in need of more well-trained healthcare workers,” said Stephanie Myers, Director of Talent Acquisition for McLeod Health. “With the support of our community partners we will be able to fulfill this need.”

The purpose of the funding is to increase the number of individuals trained in healthcare occupations that directly impact patient care and alleviate healthcare workforce shortages by creating sustainable employment and training programs in healthcare occupations serving rural populations.

Those targeted to benefit from the grant are the underemployed and unemployed in rural areas as well as displaced individuals who are looking to re-enter the workforce and need to acquire new skills. Those occupations included in the grant are: Licensed Practical Nurses, Medical Surgical Technicians, Certified Medical Assistants, Phlebotomists, and Pharmacy Technicians.

Successful participants will fill positions at McLeod Health Clarendon, McLeod Health Cheraw, McLeod Health Dillon or one of 33 rural McLeod Physician Associate practices.

“By utilizing the funding awarded in this grant, McLeod will be able to assist our rural communities with education, training, and employment opportunities in much needed clinical positions,” said Myers. “This aligns with our mission and vision to be good stewards in our communities, invest in our employees, and be the choice for medical excellence.”

For questions regarding the Rural Healthcare Grant email askrecruiting@mcleodhealth.org.