RWJBarnabas Health recently announced the expansion of its community health worker (CHW) and Rideshare programs to Monmouth County, as the organization builds on its mission to improve access to health care across New Jersey.
The expansion occurred through an agreement between RWJBarnabas Health, which operates Monmouth Medical Center and Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus, and Monmouth Family Health Center, a federally qualified health center in Long Branch.
“By bringing these programs here, we’re taking meaningful action to ensure that everyone— regardless of their circumstances — has the support, resources and transportation they need to receive timely, quality care,” said Eric Carney, president and CEO of Monmouth Medical Center and Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus. “This initiative reflects our shared mission to advance health access and strengthen community well-being.”
The Community Health Worker program connects individuals with CHWs who provide assistance navigating medical care, social services and wellness resources.
The Rideshare program offers no-cost transportation for patients who need it to medical appointments, pharmacy visits, and other health-related services. This ensures that lack of transportation is no longer a reason for missed care, particularly for vulnerable populations.
“Access to care is about more than just providing medical services — it’s about making sure our patients can actually get to them,” said Balpreet Grewal-Virk, senior vice pPresident of Community Health at RWJBarnabas Health. “By expanding these programs to Monmouth County, we’re bridging gaps in transportation, strengthening trust within communities, and helping individuals achieve better health outcomes.”
RWJBarnabas Health’s CHW and Rideshare programs are already operating in several other counties. This move is part of a broader system-wide strategy to increase health access throughout the state.
