New community health pathway partnership between TidalHealth and Maryland

Salisbury, Md. – The Department of Service and Civic Innovation has announced a brand-new partnership with TidalHealth to bolster public health workforce development.

Deputy Secretary Sarah Flemmang told WMDT that the new partnership will boost the public health workforce by creating new community health worker positions. The positions will be full-time and last nine months. But Flemmang says no experience is required, as TidalHealth and Worwic Community College will provide training.

“Because there’s no experience required and there is minimal qualifications required, this allows access to the program for a wide variety of people,” Flemmang said. “And that’s part of the goal is really improving the ability for pipelines into these careers and access to the program for folks of any background.”

Flemmang said the position is meant to help people navigate the healthcare system, and encourages people who wish to connect with their community to apply.

“I think because the individuals that serve in this program will likely be from this area, they’re able to relate to the individuals that they’re serving in a unique way. They can they probably know some of their, friends and family,” she said. “They know the communities that they live in. They can help them navigate resources that are particular to this space and really speak their language, so to say.” ​

The deadline for the application is Monday, Aug. 17. Those who are between the ages of 18 and 24 years old and are holders of a GED or other High School diploma equivalent are encouraged to apply at serve.maryland.gov.