Keeping Barnwell County Residents Healthy

Healthcare is an important component of any community.

Though Barnwell County no longer has a hospital, there are two facilities in neighboring counties. The Allendale County Hospital and BambergBarnwell Emergency Medical Center (in Bamberg County) are only 15 to 20 minutes from most Barnwell County residents.

A variety of medical offices are located in Barnwell County, including physicians, optometrists, physical therapists, pediatricians, dentists, and mental health. In recent years, many providers have invested money in new facilities, equipment, and training so they can better serve the community.

Sara O’Neal, the county’s first nurse practitioner, is one example of the many dedicated healthcare providers. She celebrated her 30th anniversary with Barnwell Pediatrics in November 2022.

“I am on my third generation of seeing some families. I try to treat my patients like they were my own children,” said O’Neal.

Dr. Abe Moskow, who started Barnwell Pediatrics, has been a doctor since

1982.

“I was told that you can’t do pediatrics in a small town, but we gave it a shot,” said Moskow. “Healthcare without having to go far is a huge benefit to a community.”

The ever­growing medical field always needs highlytrained individuals. That’s why educational programs are vital.

The University of South Carolina Salkehatchie partnered with the S.C. Area Health Education Consortium (AHEC) to expand learning opportunities for nurse practitioner, physician assistant, pharmacy and nursing students who are committed to underserved and rural communities.

“The partnership allows our nursing students to experience simulated scenarios that replicate what they will encounter as registered nurses,” said April Wolfe, Salk’s nursing academic program manager.

The Barnwell County Career Center also trains the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Health science students can earn certifications as a certified nursing assistant, certified pharmacy technician, and patient care technician/assistant by the time they graduate from high school. Certifications “enhance the marketability of these students who desire to continue their education in health care, as well as increase their starting pay in the entry level workforce,” said instructor Debra Dicks.

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