With a grant from the Maryland Community Health Re-Sources Commission, Allegany County is preparing to launch a new health initiative designed to make health care more accessible to residents.  From the Cumberland Times-News article:

The plan includes three community health workers and vouchers for those who need transportation to their health care providers.

The project has been dubbed “Healthy Allegany,” according to information provided by Brenda Caldwell of the Allegany County Health Department.

The health care workers are planned to be permanent additions to the county’s health organizations and will help residents to get the health care help they need.

That includes helping them make lifestyle changes and address barriers that keep them from accessing medical care, Caldwell said.

“… A mobility manager will be hired at the Allegany County Human Resources Development Commission. The mobility manager will assist residents in navigating the available transportation options. The transportation voucher system, which will provide cab vouchers, will be one option available to residents in addition to existing options including fixed bus routes and transportation through medical assistance and community organizations.

The initiative is expected to be in place for one year, but Allegany County health officials hope to be able to continue it after the year of grant funding.