David Pope, the president and CEO of the Scotland Health Care System, recently received the North Carolina Community Star award. This honor recognizes his dedication to enhancing rural health, announced on National Rural Health Day.
Scotland Health operates 43 locations, offering emergency and primary care, cancer treatment, and hospice services across Scotland and Robeson counties, including Bennettsville, South Carolina. Pope highlighted the challenges they confront, stating, “Despite having some of the toughest social health issues in the state, we provide a wider array of services than many health systems.” He emphasized the importance of community connections through nurse navigators and paramedics who build trust with patients.
According to the County Health Rankings and Roadmaps, Scotland County is among the least healthy in North Carolina. Residents here have a life expectancy about seven years lower than the state average, as reported by the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services.
Pope has championed community-based initiatives, such as the Scotland Health-at-Home program. This program links patients with preventive care and local resources to reduce emergency visits. During his two years as CEO, Scotland Health also partnered with Richmond Community College to create a surgical technician program, offering tuition assistance to students.
In addition, the Legacy Nurse Scholarship Program helps nurses further their education by covering tuition and book costs. “Dr. Pope’s leadership has positively impacted every part of the community,” remarked Maggie Sauer, director of the state’s Office of Rural Health. She noted his efforts align perfectly with the theme for this year’s National Rural Health Day: “Rural Rising.”
Staff feedback plays a crucial role in Pope’s leadership. For instance, when a staff member suggested converting a former Walgreens store into a clinic, Pope embraced the idea. Now, the Laurinburg Family Practice offers primary care and urgent services, including a pharmacy.
Pope credits his passion for rural healthcare to Dr. Billy Blakeney, a physician who inspired him when he was young. “Dr. Blakeney showed me the importance of not settling for less in rural areas. I aim to carry on that mission,” Pope expressed.
This year, Pope joins 47 individuals and organizations nationwide recognized for their rural health contributions. The Community Star award celebrates those who go the extra mile to improve rural healthcare, with each state selecting one recipient annually.
Since its inception in 2011, National Rural Health Day has spotlighted the struggles and successes in rural health. North Carolina has seen five Community Star awards presented to its health workers and organizations since 2015, including notable figures like Dr. Karen Smith and William Massengill.
As rural areas continue to face unique challenges, leaders like David Pope exemplify how dedication and innovative thinking can create positive changes in community health. This approach not only benefits patients but also enriches the entire healthcare system.
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