Mercer County nurse launches faith-based health screening program

PRINCETON, W.Va. — Tera Dillow, RN, a dedicated faith community nurse, has recently launched a health screening program within her local faith community, Johnston Chapel Baptist Church in Princeton, West Virginia.

With 25 years of experience living and working in Mercer County, Dillow has now completed the Foundations of Faith Community Nursing course through the West Virginia University (WVU) School of Nursing, further enhancing her skills and outreach capabilities.

"Screening and outreach will be the focus of the work we are doing here in Mercer County," said Dillow, emphasizing the importance of proactive health measures within the community she serves.

The Foundations of Faith Community Nursing course is a national training program designed to equip nurses with the skills needed to build access to care points across West Virginia.

"This program supports nurses in creating vital connections and providing essential health services within their communities," said Dr. Angel Smothers, Associate Dean for Community Engagement at the WVU School of Nursing.

Dillow and Dr. Smothers first met in high school in a health-related program at the Mercer County Technical Education Center. They later attended nursing school together at Bluefield State University and are now partnering in this new effort to improve the health of rural community members.

For those interested in learning more about the Faith Community Nursing Training Program, Dr. Angel Smothers can be contacted at asmothers@hsc.wvu.edu.

This initiative highlights the significant role of faith community nurses in improving public health and underscores WVU's commitment to fostering community engagement and healthcare access throughout the state.

Dillow’s work is made possible thanks to funding provided by a school of nursing alum, Natalie Bush. This gift was awarded via the WVU Foundation, the nonprofit organization that receives and administers private donations on behalf of the University.

-WVU-

CONTACT: Wendy Holdren

Director of Communications and Marketing

WVU School of Nursing

304-581-1772; wendy.holdren@hsc.wvu.edu