By HFT Staff

The Appalachian Regional Healthcare System (ARHS) and UNC Health have announced the approval of an agreement to expand local healthcare services for patients in the High Country region of North Carolina. 

Through the agreement, ARHS will be able to invest in services, technology, equipment and facilities. One benefit for patients will be access to an electronic health record system with the Epic MyChart patient portal. By the end of next year, patients will be able to use MyChart to take a more active role in their care.  

In addition to the technology improvements, through the affiliation with UNC Health, ARHS will be able to: 

• expand specialty and subspecialty services, such as advanced cancer care and heart and vascular services 
• access the resources of a large health system for purchasing and contracting 
• benefit from industry best practices to enhance patient care and quality and drive consistent, successful outcomes 
• obtain resources to support talent and recruitment efforts and provide additional opportunities for professional growth and advancement for employees and providers.