Loneliness and social isolation have been shown to impact life expectancy as much as smoking, obesity and physical inactivity. Meritus Health has set out to make sure that loneliness doesn’t take its toll on our community… One phone call at a time.
The Meritus Health Care Callers program addresses the serious health risks of loneliness and social isolation — factors shown to impact life expectancy as much as smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity. Launched in November 2021, the program connects 81 volunteers and two staff members with 350 patients who self-identify as lonely. Each week, callers engage patients in 15- to 30-minute conversations. To date, more than 700 patients have participated. In fiscal year 2024 alone, the program logged 185,915 minutes of conversation. After four months, 95% of participants report feeling less lonely.
How can I be part of the program?
1) Become a Meritus Health volunteer!
2) Review the Care Callers training material.
3) Start calling!
We are encouraging our community to consider volunteering for the program. For more information on the Meritus Care Callers program, call 240-291-6365. Current employees should also call that number, or email carecaller@meritushealth.com.