News

Southeast Georgia Health System CEO Michael Scherneck Retires After 18 Years of Successful Leadership

After nearly two decades of leadership roles with Southeast Georgia Health System, including more than six years as president and chief executive officer, Michael D. Scherneck retired on January 7, 2022. Scherneck joined the Health System in 2003 as executive vice president and chief financial officer. In 2015, he was appointed president & chief executive officer by the Southeast Georgia …Read More

Veazey named to ‘Most Influential Georgians’ list

In its January edition, Georgia Trend has named Tifton’s Monty Veazey, President and CEO of the Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals, as one of the 100 Most Influential Georgians.   “Georgia Trend’s 24th annual list of Most Influential Georgians features a group of remarkable leaders who have had a tremendous positive impact on the strength and character of our state,” …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Brunswick and Camden Campuses Make Georgia Trend’s Top Hospital List

Georgia Trend has recognized Southeast Georgia Health System’s Brunswick and Camden campuses as two of the 2021 Top Hospitals in the state. The leading business and lifestyle magazine featured the hospital rankings in its December 2021 issue; the Brunswick Campus ranked 9th in the large hospital category (250 or more patient beds) and the Camden Campus ranked 5th in the …Read More

SGMC Continues to Encourage Vaccinations for COVID-1

South Georgia Medical Center continues to make vaccinations available at its Smith Northview campus and encourages all eligible citizens to receive their COVID-19 vaccination or booster shot.     According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recent data shows that those unvaccinated are at 10-times greater risk of testing positive for COVID-19, and 20-times greater risk of dying from the …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent Hosts Healthy Communities Food as Medicine Market Grand Opening

Food insecurity is a major barrier to health for central and south Georgia residents   Community partners joined Atrium Health Navicent on Monday for the grand opening of the health system’s new Healthy Communities Food as Medicine Market and Food Farmacy program. “Our most recent community health needs assessment identified food insecurity as a major barrier to health care in …Read More

St. Mary’s donates 2 tons of frozen turkeys to those in need

Just before Thanksgiving, St. Mary’s Health Care System and its colleagues and volunteers donated 250 turkeys – weighing about 4,000 pounds – to the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia and the Greene County Food Pantry to help families in need this holiday season. Each year, St. Mary’s partners with its food service provider, Metz Culinary, to give a free turkey …Read More

Georgia Trend Names Atrium Health Navicent The Medical Center a Top Teaching Hospital

Hospitals are ranked based on scores calculated by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services   Georgia Trend, a regional business publication offering business analysis to more than 50,000 subscribers, recently released its “Georgia Trend 2021 Top Hospitals” listing, including Atrium Health Navicent The Medical Center as one of the top teaching hospitals in Georgia. Georgia Trend ranked the state’s …Read More

SGMC Sleep Center Receives Accreditation

South Georgia Medical Center’s Sleep Center recently became accredited by the American Commission for Health Care (ACHC). ACHC offers a patient-focused approach to sleep accreditation with principles developed with direct input from industry professionals to ensure relevant and realistic standards. The accreditation ensures a higher quality of patient care is provided while also enhancing business efficiencies.   South Georgia Medical …Read More

St. Mary’s Hospital earns national recognition for promoting organ, eye and tissue donation

St. Mary’s Hospital has earned platinum-level recognition for its work in support of organ, eye and tissue donation and public health, while continuing to serve on the frontlines in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.   The Workplace Partnership for Life (WPFL) program is a national initiative that unites the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Health Resources and …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent Celebrates 13 Years of World Class Stroke Care

Atrium Health Navicent The Medical Center has earned its 11th consecutive “Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus” Quality Achievement Award, an annual award presented by the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association (AHA) for excellence in stroke care.  Atrium Health Navicent The Medical Center earned the “Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus” Quality Achievement Award …Read More

Northside Hospital developing new Cumberland medical center

Offering convenient access to high-quality care for more than 230,000 area residents   Northside Hospital is pleased to announce its development of a new medical campus, further extending clinical excellence to the residents of Smyrna / Vinings and surrounding communities. The three-story, 60,000 square foot state-of-the-art medical office building is expected to open in January 2023.   “This beautiful facility …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent Recognizes Lung Cancer Awareness Month

In observance of Lung Cancer Awareness Month, Atrium Health Navicent encourages men and women to know their risks for lung cancer and to get annual screenings if they are at a high risk for developing the disease. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. Overall, the chance that a man will develop lung cancer in his lifetime …Read More

Radiation Innovation at Tanner’s Roy Richards, Sr. Cancer Care Protects Breast Cancer Patients from Long-term Heart Damage

Millions of breast cancer survivors are alive and thriving today because of innovations in the detection and treatment of the disease — technologies that are continuously improved for safety and effectiveness.   A recent innovation – deep inspiration breath hold – introduced earlier this year at Tanner’s Roy Richards, Sr. Cancer Center, protects women from a potential side effect of …Read More

Join Atrium Health Navicent in Preventing Premature Births

Pregnant women are encouraged to be vaccinated against COVID   Join Atrium Health Navicent in recognizing November as Prematurity Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness about the 380,000 babies born premature in the United States each year, and what we can do to help prevent premature births. Each year, 1 in 10 babies is born premature, which means they …Read More

Floyd is Now Atrium Health Floyd

New branding reflects integration, opportunity with Southeast’s leading health system   Floyd is now officially Atrium Health Floyd. Today marks the introduction of a new brand resulting from the strategic combination of the Floyd health system and Charlotte, North Carolina-based Atrium Health.   The new Atrium Health Floyd brand reflects and acknowledges the importance of each organization’s legacy and strength, …Read More

Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals Gives “Eagle” Award to Governor Brian Kemp

The Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals gave its first-ever Eagle Award to Governor Brian Kemp for his leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.   Introducing Governor Kemp, WellStar Health System Executive Vice President and General Counsel Leo Reichert said, “When Governor Kemp was elected, I’m sure he didn’t think he’d be spending as much time on healthcare related issues as he …Read More

Loy Howard passed gavel to Joe Ierardi as Chairman of Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals

Loy Howard, CEO of Tanner Health System and outgoing Chairman of the Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals passed the gavel to incoming Chairman Joe Ierardi, CEO of Wayne Memorial Hospital at the 38th GACH Annual Conference last week.   “The Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals has been blessed with the steady leadership of Loy Howard during the past year of …Read More

Northside Hospital Gwinnett doubles size of its Emergency Department, receives approval to build 10-story patient tower

Building on its commitment to strengthen health care resources in the Gwinnett region, Northside Hospital Gwinnett has completed a major expansion of its emergency department, begun work on a new patient tower, and is deepening its already significant community partnerships.   On Oct. 18, Northside Hospital Gwinnett cut the ribbon on its newly expanded emergency department in Lawrenceville. The hospital’s …Read More

Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals names 2020 and 2021 Legislators of the Year

The Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals named its 2020 and 2021 Legislators of the Year in their first Annual Conference since 2019. The 2020 Annual Conference was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.   “It is exciting to gather again with the leadership of our Georgia community not-for-proft hospitals and thank them for the daily acts of heroism performed by …Read More

Hamilton Medical Center providing the highest level of safety, comfort, convenience for healthcare providers

Hamilton Medical Center has begun using the MAXAIR® controlled air purifying respirator (CAPR) system to provide unprecedented protection and comfort for healthcare workers who have extended exposure to patients with COVID or other highly transmissible diseases. MAXAIR CAPR® Systems are advanced powered air purifying respirator systems approved by the US National Institute for Occupational Safety and Hazard (NIOSH) for protection …Read More

Join Atrium Health Navicent in Observing National SIDS Awareness Month

Health system seeks to educate the community about SIDS and how to reduce SIDS risk   Atrium Health Navicent Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital invites the community to observe National SIDS Awareness Month during October by learning about how SIDS risk can be reduced. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the sudden, unexplained death of a child less than 1 …Read More

Atrium Health Named to 2021 Joy in Medicine™ Health System Recognition Program

The American Medical Association (AMA) today announced Atrium Health is one of 44 health systems named to the 2021 Joy in Medicine™ Recognition Program. This distinction recognizes the Atrium Health enterprise – including the greater Charlotte area, Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, Atrium Health Navicent in Macon, Georgia and Floyd health system in Rome, Georgia – …Read More

Hamilton Emergency Medical Services earns advanced recertification

Hamilton Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) has received reaccreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Ambulance Services for its compliance with national standards of excellence. HEMS initially was certified in 2018.   HEMS is one of more than 180 ambulance services in the nation to successfully complete the voluntary review process, which includes completion of a comprehensive application and on-site review …Read More

My Health, My Way, MyChart

Tanner’s patient app makes managing healthcare easy   For Carrollton resident Beverly Parkman, an app from Tanner Health System is an answer to the anxiety she’s often felt awaiting a test result.   With more than 50,000 Tanner patients now using the app to schedule medical appointments, get test results, message their medical providers and pay their bills, Tanner’s MyChart …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent Offers Pfizer COVID-19 Booster Shots

Vaccines are available for eligible individuals who completed the Pfizer vaccine series   Atrium Health Navicent is now offering Pfizer COVID-19 booster shots to eligible individuals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended booster shots for certain groups of people who completed the Pfizer vaccine series at least six months ago, including individuals aged 65 and older, …Read More

Join Atrium Health Navicent in Month of Events to Raise Breast Cancer Awareness

Physicians encourage screening for early detection and treatment   Atrium Health Navicent invites the community to participate in a month of Breast Cancer Awareness events to help raise awareness and encourage screening for early detection and treatment. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer among American women. Women have a 1 in 8 chance of developing breast cancer in …Read More

SGMC Recognizes October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, South Georgia Medical Center is encouraging all eligible women to get their annual mammogram screening during the month of October and raising awareness of Breast Cancer prevention, screening and treatment with its Pamper and Prevent campaign.   Breast cancer still remains one of the most common forms of cancer found in women within …Read More

Pfizer Booster Shots Now Available

Southeast Georgia Health System Provides Free Pfizer COVID-19 Booster Vaccines   Southeast Georgia Health System has begun administering free Pfizer COVID-19 booster shots to a larger segment of the general population as recommended by the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).   The Health System began administering third dose Pfizer and Moderna vaccines …Read More

St. Joseph’s/Candler paying transportation costs for those seeking COVID-19 vaccine

For more than a year and a half, we have all been living in the stark reality of this insidious disease, as well as the devastating collateral damage that it has caused in our lives and in the lives of those we love. Last week, our country reached an unprecedented milestone: nearly one in eight people have been infected since …Read More

SGMC Sees Growth Across Physician Network

Unequaled access to quality healthcare is one of South Georgia Medical Center’s main priorities, of which the system is making vast headway. Since officially organizing in 2020 SGMC’s Physician Network has more than doubled in its number of physicians and tripled in its number of specialties.   According to Jim Zacharias, SGMC Vice President of Network Development, this is a result …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA MEDICAL CENTER ANNOUNCES INITIAL ACCREDITATION FOR CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE AND HOSPICE PALLIATIVE MEDICINE FELLOWSHIP PROGRAMS

Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) is taking the next step in its journey to empower the physician leaders of tomorrow, now that it received initial accreditation for Cardiovascular Disease Fellowship and Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship programs by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME).             With the launch of the state’s most forward-thinking heart and vascular program earlier …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent President and CEO Delvecchio Finley Named to Modern Healthcare’s Top 25 Diversity Leaders List

List honors top healthcare executives influencing policy and care delivery models across the country   Atrium Health Navicent President and CEO Delvecchio Finley has been recognized by Modern Healthcare as one of the magazine’s 2021 Top 25 Diversity Leaders in Healthcare.   The Top Diversity Leaders award honors top healthcare executives from diverse backgrounds and the organizations influencing policy and …Read More

SGMC Raises Awareness of Peripheral Artery Disease

South Georgia Medical Center is raising awareness of Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) during September in an effort to save limbs through early detection. PAD is a leading, and preventable, cause of death in the United States, affecting nearly 20 million Americans each year.   PAD develops when the arteries that supply blood to the internal organs, arms and legs become …Read More

SGMC Nationally Recognized for Cardiac Care

South Georgia Medical Center has received the American Heart Association’s Resuscitation Gold Adult Get With The Guidelines award for its commitment to treating in-hospital cardiac arrest, ultimately helping to improve patient survival rates. SGMC has received the gold award for adult patients consecutively for the past six years.   Every year around 475,000 Americans die from cardiac arrest and more …Read More

Join Atrium Health Navicent in Observing Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

Ovarian cancer ranks fifth in cancer deaths among women   In observance of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, Atrium Health Navicent encourages women to learn the risk factors and symptoms of ovarian cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), cancer is a disease in which cells in the body grow out of control. When cancer starts in …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent Employee Giving Program Awards $189,000 in Grants to Benefit Central Georgia Communities

Since inception, the program has awarded more than $9 million in grants to healthcare charities and programs   Atrium Health Navicent’s employee giving program, Healthcare Employees Achieving Tomorrow (H.E.A.T.) recently awarded 23 grants to healthcare charities and programs totaling $189,000. The grant funds directly impact central Georgia communities though the provision of scholarships, food and literacy supplies for children, mental …Read More

Tanner Receives Support from Georgia National Guard

Georgia National Guard deployed to Tanner hospitals, supporting nutrition services and environmental services departments amid critical staffing shortages. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, hospitals, nursing homes and other healthcare facilities across the nation experienced severe staffing shortages. The pandemic has compounded the problem. To help alleviate the issues in Georgia, Gov. Brian Kemp issued an emergency order last month to …Read More

SGMC Hosts Saturday COVID-19 Vaccine Drive-Thru

South Georgia Medical Center will host a COVID-19 vaccination drive-thru event at the SGMC Main Campus on Saturday, Sept. 18 from 9am-3pm. All eligible persons are encouraged to visit the site to receive their free COVID-19 vaccine.   SGMC has administered more than 40,000 vaccinations since they became available last December. However, Lowndes County is currently only at 31 percent …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM LAUNCHES NEW HEART & VASCULAR INSTITUTE

Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) continues to lead the way in innovative heart care with the launch of the state’s most forward-thinking heart and vascular program: Georgia Heart Institute.   “While NGHS has a long and rich tradition of providing exceptional heart and vascular care, Georgia Heart Institute represents a bold new vision for the future of our region – …Read More

Hamilton Health Care System residency program

Hamilton Health Care System (HHCS) is early on in the second year of its Residency Program. Thirteen physicians have started their internal medicine residency, and six have started a family medicine residency. HHCS recently hosted its second White Coat Ceremony, a rite of passage for resident physicians to emphasize the importance of compassionate patient care at the very start of …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent Offers Monoclonal Antibody Treatments for COVID-19

Atrium Health Navicent is now offering outpatient COVID-19 monoclonal antibody (mAb) treatments at five central Georgia locations. If administered within the first week of COVID-19 symptoms onset, the one-time therapy is highly effective in neutralizing the virus and preventing symptoms from worsening, helping prevent progression of the disease that might otherwise require hospitalization. The treatment is administered through intravenous infusion, …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent Physicians Urge Patients to Consider Virtual, Primary and Urgent Care Options for Non-Emergency Care

Physicians urge patients to seek out the best care option for their needs   With the local rise of COVID-19 cases and subsequent increase in hospital emergency room patient volumes, Atrium Health Navicent encourages patients to consider virtual, primary and urgent care options for non-emergency care. In the event of an emergency, patients should call 911 or visit the nearest …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Expands Access to COVID-19 Antibody Therapy Treatment

Vaccines are still the very best way to prevent COVID-19 or to avoid severe illness, hospitalization or death from the virus. However, for those individuals who test positive for coronavirus and have underlying health conditions, Southeast Georgia Health System offers an outpatient monoclonal antibody therapy that may help avoid hospitalization or severe illness.   Regeneron monoclonal antibody therapy (Regeneron infusion) …Read More

SGMC Offering Two COVID-19 Vaccine Drive Thru Locations on Saturday

South Georgia Medical Center will operate two COVID-19 vaccination drive-thru locations on Saturday, Aug. 28 from 9am-3pm. All unvaccinated persons 12 and older are encouraged to visit either the SGMC Main Campus or SGMC Smith Northview Campus to receive their free COVID-19 vaccine.       The hospital says they already have 500 people scheduled to receive their second COVID-19 dose at the …Read More

SGMC Offering COVID-19 Third Dose to Immunocompromised People

South Georgia Medical Center is now offering an additional shot of the COVID-19 vaccine to individuals who are moderately to severely immunocompromised as per CDC guidelines.     According to the CDC, people who are currently receiving active cancer treatment for tumors or cancers of the blood, have received an organ transplant and are taking medication for their immune system, have …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Offers Third Dose to Immunocompromised Individuals

Following the recommendation from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), Southeast Georgia Health System is now offering a third dose of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID-19 vaccine to individuals with specific immune conditions at its Brunswick and Camden Campus vaccine clinics. Currently, the CDC is only recommending moderately to severely immunocompromised individuals …Read More

SGMC Relaunches Drive Thru COVID-19 Testing

South Georgia Medical Center re-opened its drive thru COVID-19 testing at a new location to provide area residents safe and convenient access to testing. The drive thru is located on the main campus in the parking lot of the Surgery Center Building at 2417 N. Patterson St. in Valdosta, and is available Monday-Friday, from 8:30am-4pm.   SGMC has seen a …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Offers Drive-Through COVID-19 Testing

Southeast Georgia Health System offers free nasal swab PCR (molecular polymerase chain reaction) COVID-19 testing at its Brunswick and Camden campuses for symptomatic and asymptomatic (no symptoms present) individuals. The PCR test detects if an individual is infected with COVID-19. Rapid testing and antigen testing are not available. The Health System’s outpatient COVID-19 testing sites are available to anyone experiencing …Read More

Protect Yourself from Heat-Related Illnesses this Summer

As temperatures soar this summer, it’s important to be on the lookout for symptoms of heat-related illnesses and to take preventative measures. Young children, those aged 65 and older, overweight individuals and those who are ill or taking certain medications are most at risk of developing a heat-related illness. Physicians at Atrium Health Navicent warn the community of the following …Read More

Hamilton Medical Center using technology to clean air within hospital

Needlepoint bipolar ionization (NPBI) technology has been installed in every air handler system in Hamilton Medical Center. This improves the air quality in patient rooms, lobby areas, the cafeteria and offices. NPBI complements the already existing air filtration within the hospital.   NPBI technology helps reduce particles in the air by introducing ions into the space via the airflow in …Read More

St. Mary’s nurse David Gladys honored for extraordinary care

Neuroscience critical care nurse helps young man nearing end of life   As the mother of a son diagnosed with Duchene’s Muscular Dystrophy at age 3, Deirdre Gusek always knew every moment with her son was precious. When he developed severe breathing problems in spring 2020 at age 22, she feared he was nearing the end of life.   Sadly, …Read More

SGMC Opens COVID-19 Treatment Center

South Georgia Medical Center opened a COVID-19 Treatment Center to provide area residents who are positive with COVID-19, with an important treatment option—monoclonal antibody infusions. The clinic will be located on the main campus in the Surgery Center Building at 2417 N. Patterson St. in Valdosta, and be open Monday-Sunday, from 11am-9pm.    SGMC began offering monoclonal antibody infusions to patients …Read More

“We’re tired.” Nurses Plead With Community to Get Vaccinated

Health System Expands COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic Hours, Postpones Elective Surgeries and Limits Hospital Visitation   With the number of positive COVID-19 patients increasing every day at its Brunswick and Camden Campus hospitals, Southeast Georgia Health System nurses and physicians are pleading with the community to get vaccinated.   “We’re tired, and we’re at our wits’ end,” says Jan Jones, R.N., …Read More

SGMC to host Saturday COVID-19 Vaccination Drive-Thru

South Georgia Medical Center will host a COVID-19 vaccination drive-thru event at its Smith Northview Campus on Saturday, Aug. 7 from 9am-3pm. All unvaccinated persons 12 and older are encouraged to visit the site to receive their free COVID-19 vaccine.     SGMC has seen a dramatic increase of COVID-19 positive hospitalizations over the past weeks, with the majority of those patients …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent Partners with Schools to Vaccinate Students, School Staff

Atrium Health Navicent is partnering with schools in Baldwin and Wilkinson counties to vaccinate eligible students, school staff and their families against COVID-19 during special vaccination events this week.   Vaccinations will be offered at: Wilkinson County High School – Thursday, July 29, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Baldwin County High School – Friday, July 30, from 9 a.m. …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM RECOGNIZES PHYSICIANS NAMED TO ATLANTA MAGAZINE’S 2021 TOP DOCTORS LIST

Atlanta Magazine recently announced its 2021 Top Doctors list, which includes many physicians who are part of Northeast Georgia Health System. The list, created in partnership with Castle Connolly Top Doctors, is determined after a rigorous screening process of online nominations from licensed physicians across the United States. Click here to see a complete list of Atlanta Magazine’s 2021 Top …Read More

August Covid-19 Vaccine Offered at Wayne Memorial Hospital, Friday, August 6, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Wayne Memorial Hospital is offering the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine to those 18 and older on Friday, August 6 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in its main conference room. The public may enter through the front doors of the hospital or the side entry at the cafeteria patio. There is no charge and no need for an appointment. Masks should …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA PHYSICIANS GROUP URGES COMMUNITY TO GET COVID-19 VACCINE AT UPCOMING VACCINE CLINIC

The Delta variant has already caused COVID-19 surges in other states, and it’s here in Georgia now. Thankfully, the difference between these surges and what we saw last year is the fact that we have access to a better weapon in the fight: the COVID-19 vaccine. Next week, Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG) is hosting an event to distribute the …Read More

St. Mary’s, AU/UGA Medical Partnership welcome 12 new physician residents

St. Mary’s Health Care System and the Augusta University/University of Georgia Medical Partnership are welcoming 12 new physician residents to the Internal Medicine Residency Program (IMRP) this summer.   The new residents began practicing at St. Mary’s on July 1 under the supervision of advanced resident physicians and physician faculty from the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University and …Read More

SGMC Among Nation’s Top Performing Hospitals for Treatment of Heart Attack Patients

South Georgia Media Center has received the American College of Cardiology’s NCDR Chest Pain  ̶  MI Registry Silver Performance Achievement Award for 2021. SGMC is the only hospital in the region and among only eight in the state of Georgia and 132 nationwide to receive the honor.   The award recognizes SGMC’s commitment and success in implementing a higher standard …Read More

Lower Your Skin Cancer Risk with Safety Tips from Atrium Health Navicent

Spending time outdoors is a great way to be physically active, reduce stress and have fun, but too much unprotected exposure to the sun can be dangerous. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Most skin cancers are caused by too much exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light, an invisible type of radiation that comes from the …Read More

SGMC Now Offering Advanced Wound Care Therapies

South Georgia Medical Center held a ribbon cutting ceremony with the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce on June 28 to celebrate its new partnership with Healogics and the subsequent enhancement of SGMC Wound Care and Hyperbarics.    SGMC partnered with Healogics, the nation’s leading provider of advanced, chronic wound care services to enhance the treatment options available for people living with chronic, …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent Encourages Fireworks and Gun Safety for Independence Day Holiday

Physicians urge caution in fireworks use and discourage celebratory gunfire   According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 15,600 people were treated for fireworks-related injuries in U.S. hospital emergency departments in 2020. Two thirds of those injuries occurred in the weeks immediately before and immediately after the Independence Day holiday. The most common injuries include burns to the …Read More

St. Mary’s resumes Life After Loss support group

The loss of a loved one can be an emotional roller coaster, filled with an intense and sometimes debilitating mix of emotions – especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. For adults grieving the loss of a loved one through death, St. Mary’s Hospital is resuming Life After Loss, a free bereavement and grief support group.   The group’s …Read More

Atlas Health and Wayne Memorial Partner to Enhance Community Access to Critical Health Care

Atlas Health, the leader in medical financial aid for vulnerable populations, today announced that Wayne Memorial Hospital is on track to match its patients with more than $1 million in financial medical aid this year, a year-over-year increase of more than 500 percent. To date, the partnership has enabled the award-winning, rural hospital to reduce the financial burden of critical …Read More

Hamilton Physician Group practices certified as Patient-Centered Medical Homes

Three Hamilton Physician Group (HPG) practices related to primary care have earned Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) certification through the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA). The patient-centered medical home is a model of care that puts patients at the forefront of care. PCMHs build better relationships between patients and their clinical care teams. In this setting, patients are encouraged to …Read More

SGMC Enhances Neurosurgery Procedures with New Surgical Navigation Technology

South Georgia Medical Center now offers enhanced neurosurgery and spine procedures with the StealthStation™ S8, a surgical navigation system designed to help surgeons perform more accurate procedures in the operating room.   The device allows surgeons to track the location of surgical instruments during procedures, offering better visuals and quantified information for surgeons during neurosurgery to assist them in avoiding …Read More

Hamilton Medical Center reminding community members to B.E. F.A.S.T.

Hamilton Medical Center (HMC) is encouraging community members to be aware about the dangers of stroke and steps to take to avoid stroke. May is National Stroke Awareness Month. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or ruptures. When that happens, part of the brain cannot …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent Encourages Summer Water Safety

With summer starting and Georgia’s temperatures soaring, Atrium Health Navicent encourages the community to take care when cooling down in pools and natural bodies of water such as rivers, lakes and the ocean to reduce drowning risk.   According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning is a leading cause of injury and death for young children aged …Read More

Join Atrium Health Navicent in Raising ALS Awareness

The community is invited to join Atrium Health Navicent in raising awareness for ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, during ALS Awareness Month this May.   Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that attacks nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. As neurons controlling voluntary movement are attacked, ALS patients gradually lose the ability to …Read More

SGMC EMS Named 2020 Georgia Emergency Medical Service of the Year

South Georgia Medical Center was recently awarded the Georgia Emergency Medical Service of the Year award for 2020 by the Georgia Emergency Medical Services Association (GEMSA).   This award is given to a Georgia licensed emergency medical service (EMS) team that has gone above and beyond in delivering the best patient care and maintaining the best professionalism to communities locally, …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent Begins Vaccinating 12 to 15-Year-Olds Against COVID-19

As part of an ongoing commitment to help slow the spread of COVID-19, Atrium Health Navicent has begun vaccinating children aged 12 to 15.   “We are excited that children and teens aged 12 and up will be able to receive a COVID vaccine. Children are able to contract COVID-19 and we have seen some children with long-term problems related …Read More

Join Atrium Health Navicent in Observing National Stroke Month

Health System Seeks to Decrease Central Georgians’ Stroke Risk   Atrium Health Navicent invites the community to observe National Stroke Month during May by learning to recognize and react to the signs of stroke. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), someone in the United States has a stroke every 40 seconds. Every four minutes, someone dies …Read More

Join Atrium Health Navicent in Recognizing National Women’s Health Week

The community is invited to join Atrium Health Navicent in recognizing May 9 thru 15 as National Women’s Health Week. Beginning on Mother’s Day each year, this week serves as a reminder for women to take care of themselves and to make their health a priority. “Many times, as women, we tend to put others’ needs in front of own …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM URGES COMMUNITY NOT TO DELAY CARE

As the COVID-19 pandemic enters its second year, Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) is reminding people it’s safe to go to the doctor and encouraging you to not delay care. In addition to traditional physician visits, urgent care and emergency care, patients can now receive care from trusted physicians on your cell phone or tablet. “We are still seeing patients …Read More

Tanner Women’s Care, Community Partners Launch ‘Better Birth Days’ Campaign To Keep Region’s Moms and Their Babies Safe and Healthy

Just in time for Mother’s Day, Tanner Women’s Care and several community partners are launching a new effort to keep moms and their babies safe and healthy.   The new public awareness campaign, “Better Birth Days,” will provide education on the potential life-threatening health risks and complications for moms during pregnancy, delivery and postpartum — especially among Black and Latina …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA MEDICAL CENTER ANNOUNCES ACCREDITATION FOR OB/GYN RESIDENCY PROGRAM

Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) has received initial accreditation from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) for its OB/GYN residency program. This is NGMC’s sixth Graduate Medical Education (GME) program to receive initial accreditation, following the announcement in April that the Emergency Medicine and Psychiatry residency programs have been accredited. “The OB/GYN residency program is an integral part …Read More

Sacred Heart Hospital receives second consecutive Leapfrog ‘A’ safety grade

St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital was awarded an ‘A’ in the spring 2021 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Gradea national distinction recognizing Sacred Heart’s achievements  protecting patients from harm and providing safer health care – the hospital’s second consecutive ‘A’ safety grade The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization committed to health care quality and safety. The Safety Grade assigns …Read More

SGMC Employee Donates Kidney to Save a Life

In 2017, Timothy Daugherty started having sudden attacks of pain in his feet. The pain was persistent and after a few months Tim decided it was time to see a doctor. A blood test was administered and when the results came back he was diagnosed with stage 3, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS), kidney disease.   FSGS occurs when the kidneys …Read More

SGMC Launches Kindness Campaign

It’s been said that kindness is the best medicine. With the past year being particularly challenging for health care professionals, South Georgia Medical Center is launching a campaign asking the community to help spread kindness among its team members.      The campaign features a video of healthcare employees taking a moment to thank a fellow team member who made an …Read More

SGMC Hosts Nursing Career Fair

South Georgia Medical Center is hosting the hospital’s first in-person Nursing Career Fair of the year on April 22, 2021 from 10 AM – 3 PM at Mathis City Auditorium in Valdosta. Representatives from all nursing units will be available to provide interviews and give job offers. Candidates are required to bring their resumes and be an RN or LPN …Read More

Hamilton Medical Center participating in national Talk With Me Baby program

Beginning this month, all parents of babies born at Hamilton Medical Center (HMC) will take home a “Talk With Me Baby” book.   HMC is participating in Talk With Me Baby, a national program designed to help young parents and family members understand the importance of talking and communicating with their newborn babies.  The hardcover books show families in various …Read More

Mobile Food Pantry to Provide Food for Families in Need

Atrium Health Navicent, in partnership with the Middle Georgia Community Food Bank, The Akbar Family, and the Navicent Health Foundation, will hold a community drive-thru food distribution event on Friday, April 16. Event Details When:              Friday, April 16 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Where:             Family Health Center, Navicent Health 3780 Eisenhower Parkway Macon, GA 31201 Please use the Bloomfield …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent Provides COVID-19 Vaccines to Brookdale Warming Center Residents

As part of its commitment to serve vulnerable residents, Atrium Health Navicent partnered with Macon-Bibb County to vaccinate Brookdale Warming Center residents on Friday, providing protection against COVID 19.   “Atrium Health Navicent is proud to partner with Macon-Bibb County to vaccinate these residents and help slow the spread of COVID-19,” said Atrium Health Navicent President and CEO Delvecchio Finley. …Read More

Community Partners Host Eighth Annual Child Abuse Prevention Symposium

Each April — in recognition of Child Abuse Prevention Month — Crescent House, Navicent Health encourages discussion of this important topic through an annual Child Abuse Prevention Symposium. The in-person event planned for 2020 was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but has been transformed into a virtual event for 2021.   In partnership with Resilient Middle Georgia, this year’s …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent’s Hip Fracture Program Seeks to Shorten Hospital Stays, Improve Patient Outcomes

A new multi-disciplinary Hip Fracture Program at Atrium Health Navicent is seeking to shorten hospital stays and reduce complications and readmission rates.   Launched in 2020, the program helps patients who sustain hip fractures from a variety of causes ranging from falls at ground level or from a ladder to car crashes. Injured patients, typically aged 50 and older, enter …Read More

Donate Life: Southeast Georgia Health System Encourages Community to Register as an Organ Donor

Did you know that one organ and tissue donor can save or enhance the lives of up to 75 people? More than 112,000 people in the United States await the gift of life through organ donation, and over 4,900 of those people are our friends and neighbors in Georgia. April is Donate Life Month, the month long celebration that commemorates …Read More

Floyd Connect to Purpose

“If I were Tyler Perry I’d write a movie about y’all. If I were Garth Brooks, I’d write a song.” A grateful mother wrote those words in a Facebook post commending the work of Floyd EMT Desiree Hartmann, Floyd County Police Officer Blake Puckett and other good Samaritans who helped free her daughter from the cab of a burning pickup …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent Provides COVID-19 Vaccine to Homebound Residents

Atrium Health Navicent is partnering with the Georgia Department of Public Health to vaccinate homebound individuals in four counties who otherwise wouldn’t have an opportunity to receive a Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine.   Nurses began visiting the homes of individuals identified by the Area Agency on Aging and Department of Public Health on Thursday, April 1.   “As a …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA MEDICAL CENTER COMPLETES FIRST AVM TREATMENT, ADVANCING BRAIN CARE FOR THE REGION

The radiation oncology and neuroscience teams at Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) recently partnered to provide the region’s first treatment for arteriovenous malformation (AVM), a tangle of abnormal blood vessels in the brain. Because of the high risk for stroke and myriad neurological conditions associated with AVM, patients have traditionally been sent elsewhere for care – but now they can …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Offering COVID-19 Pfizer Vaccines

Effective March 25, 2021, Southeast Georgia Health System is offering COVID-19 Pfizer vaccines for all individuals age 16 and older at its Brunswick and Kingsland Vaccine Clinics. Pfizer is the only COVID-19 vaccine currently approved for those aged 16-18. Appointments can be scheduled online at sghs.org/covid19-vaccine.   Brunswick Campus, Linda S. Pinson Conference Center 2415 Parkwood Drive, Brunswick Every Wednesday …Read More

Atrium Health Navicent to Provide COVID-19 Vaccines to all Georgians Aged 16 and Older

Atrium Health Navicent stands ready to provide public COVID-19 vaccinations to all Georgians aged 16 and older beginning Thursday. Georgia announced plans to expand the vaccine eligibility group on Tuesday.   “Atrium Health Navicent has been steadily expanding our public vaccination program as supply has allowed. We’re now vaccinating hundreds of people each clinic day, helping to slow the spread …Read More

Tanner Crests 10,000 Public Vaccines Administered

The Cracker Barrel better get a table ready for Elsie Pinyan — she’s coming for supper.   The 92-year-old Winston resident received the 10,000th dose of COVID-19 vaccine that Tanner Health System has administered to the public since it began hosting vaccination clinics in January. And Pinyan said the first thing she wanted to do was go out to eat. …Read More

Join Atrium Health Navicent in recognizing March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

The community is invited to join Navicent Health in recognizing March as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer, also known as colon cancer, is the second most common cause of cancer death in the United States and affects 1 in 20 Americans. Incidence rates are particularly high among African-Americans, and the disease is very prevalent in the Southeast.   …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Offering COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics in Brunswick and Kingsland

Southeast Georgia Health System is offering Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine appointments for residents meeting current eligibility criteria at their Brunswick and Kingsland Vaccine Clinics. Appointments can be scheduled online at sghs.org/covid19-vaccine.   Brunswick Campus, Linda S. Pinson Conference Center 2415 Parkwood Drive, Brunswick Every Wednesday and Saturday, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.   Camden Community Recreation Center 1050 Wildcat Drive, Kingsland …Read More

SGMC Shines a Light After One Year of COVID-19 Fight

Thursday, March 11, 2021 marks one year since South Georgia Medical Center received confirmation of its first positive COVID-19 patient and entered the battle against the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic. As a public show of support for its healthcare workforce and to honor the lives lost, SGMC launched 30 days of light.           For 30 days, the Dasher Memorial Heart Center will don a blue glow, the color of hope to many, …Read More

Tanner Provides COVID-19 Vaccinations to Area School Districts

On Wednesday, March 10, Tanner Health System provided COVID-19 vaccines for staff from Carroll County Schools, Carrollton City Schools, Oak Mountain Academy and Oak Grove Montessori.   “Tanner Health System’s partnership has been instrumental in allowing us to offer our employees the opportunity to receive the COVID-19 vaccine promptly,” said Scott Cowart, superintendent for the Carroll County School System. “We …Read More

Wayne Memorial Hospital Receives $10,000 in Georgia HEART Funds via Windham Brannon, LLC

Through the Georgia Rural Health Tax Program, Georgia HEART, Wayne Memorial recently received $10,000 via Windham Brannon, LLC. Pictured are Hospital Chief Financial Officer Greg Jones (left) and Windham Brannon Healthcare Advisory Business Development Director Chris Andersen (right) at the check presentation. The state of Georgia’s rural hospitals have long been facing a financial crisis, jeopardizing the access of rural Georgians to …Read More

SGMC Completes $6 Million Investment in Cancer Treatment Technology

South Georgia Medical Center recently completed a $6 million upgrade of its two linear accelerators. Located in the Pearlman Cancer Center, the versatile linear accelerators deliver customized external beam radiation treatments to cancer patients. These units are an essential part of cancer treatment with two-thirds of Pearlman’s patients receiving radiation therapy at some point during their care. Dr. John Devine, …Read More

St. Mary’s marks anniversary of start of COVID-19 pandemic

Today, St. Mary’s Health Care System will begin its observance of the first anniversary of the start of the COVID-19 pandemic by planting hundreds of white flags on the lawns of its hospitals in Athens, Lavonia and Greensboro. The flags will recognize the nearly 1,500 inpatients with COVID-19 who have received care at the three hospitals over the past year. …Read More

SGMC Foundation Receives $175,000 Grant to Fund ‘AngelEye’ Camera System in SGMC Birthplace

The South Georgia Medical Center Foundation received a $175,000 grant from the Roots and Wings Foundation to support AngelEye, the new technology recently installed in the SGMC Birthplace. AngelEye cameras allow families to check on their babies 24/7 through secure livestreaming video over a computer, phone or tablet. The application also has a one-way patient update tool that allows doctors …Read More

Georgia House of Representatives Recommends Funding for Southeast Georgia Health System Physician Residency Program Planning

The Fiscal Year 2022 Appropriations Act approved today by the Georgia House of Representatives includes $180,000 to support Southeast Georgia Health System with the initial planning work to establish a Graduate Medical Education (GME) program for resident physicians.   “Rural hospitals in Georgia are experiencing major doctor shortages, especially primary care physicians,” stated Michael D. Scherneck, president and chief executive …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Offering COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics in Brunswick and Kingsland

COVID-19 Vaccine Eligibility Criteria to Expand on March 8 BRUNSWICK, Georgia: March 4, 2021 – Southeast Georgia Health System has available COVID-19 vaccine appointments for residents meeting current eligibility criteria at their Brunswick and Kingsland Vaccine Clinics. Appointments can be scheduled online at sghs.org/covid19-vaccine.   Brunswick Campus, Linda S. Pinson Conference Center 2415 Parkwood Drive, Brunswick Saturday, March 6, 8 …Read More

SGMC Hosts Vaccination Event for Educational Workforce

Last week Georgia Governor Brian Kemp announced that beginning March 8, the eligibility for Georgians to receive a COVID-19 vaccine will be expanded. This expansion will include workforce in licensed or exempt childcare programs, Pre-K, and K-12 education; adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their caregivers; and parents of children with complex medical conditions. South Georgia Medical Center currently …Read More

A Special Kind of Cupid

​Until last November, Gene and Jane Mitchell, married for 51 years, had seldom been apart. Their union has produced four children, 14 grandchildren, four great-grandchildren and a legacy of togetherness that was abruptly interrupted by an automobile wreck last year. Mrs. Mitchell was admitted to Floyd Medical Center at a time when COVID-19 numbers were rising and hospital visits were …Read More

Hamilton Medical Center recognized for quality medical excellence, patient safety

Hamilton Medical Center (HMC) was recently recognized for medical excellence and patient safety quality by CareChex®. HMC was ranked in the top 10 percent in the nation in four categories for 2021. The awards are based on a comprehensive quality scoring system that compares inpatient quality performance across general, acute and non-federal U.S. hospitals. For Medical Excellence, HMC was recognized …Read More

Hamilton Medical Center offering new COVID-19 treatment to qualified patients to make hospital admission less likely

A new COVID-19 treatment, bamlanivimab, that recently began being offered by Hamilton Medical Center (HMC) may help certain patients from developing a more severe case of the disease. The research so far shows that for certain people, taking this drug may help limit the amount of virus in the body. This may help their symptoms improve sooner — and they …Read More

St. Joseph’s/Candler, Savannah-area churches begin vaccinations in underserved communities

A new effort is bringing the power of local Black and Latino churches to the fight against  the coronavirus. “We’ve been impacted in a major way by the pandemic, said Rev. Da’Henri Thurmond of his congregation of about 2,500 at St. Paul CME Church. “We’ve had a number of persons in our congregation who either have suffered from the virus or have ultimately died from …Read More

Georgia Trend honors Veazey as ‘Notable Georgian’

Georgia Trend magazine recognized Tifton’s Monty Veazey, the CEO of the Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals, as one of its 60 “Notable Georgians” for 2021 in its January issue.   “I’m honored to have my name mentioned alongside so many great Georgians who have accomplished so much for our state,” Veazey said. “I’m incredibly lucky to work every day with …Read More

Georgia Alliance Adds Trio of Hospital Executives to Leadership Posts

The Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals announced today that it’s added a trio of Georgia hospital executives to leadership posts. Daniel Owens, CEO of the Emory University Hospitals in Midtown and Smyrna, has joined the Alliance’s Executive Committee, and Darcy Craven, CEO of Archbold Medical Center in Thomasville, and Ronald Dean, CEO of South Georgia Medical Center in Valdosta, have …Read More

Northside BMT Program ‘significantly’ exceeds expected survival for 12th consecutive year

For a 12th consecutive year, The Blood and Marrow Transplant (BMT) Program at Northside Hospital has been recognized as having among the very best survival outcomes in the United States for bone marrow transplants.   The data were provided by the Centers for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research (CIBMTR) in their Final 2020 Transplant Center Survival Report, which tabulated patient survival following transplantation …Read More

SGMC Birthplace Adds New Camera System to Connect Families with Newborns

The Birthplace at South Georgia Medical Center recently installed 32 live-streaming video cameras to keep parents and family members connected to their newborns. The cameras, located across various departments including Labor and Delivery, Nursery, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Surgery and select Post Partum rooms, are part of a platform known as AngelEye Health.   AngelEye includes advanced camera technology, a …Read More

Hamilton Medical Center receives national recognition for support of perioperative nursing certification

Hamilton Medical Center recently earned the CNOR® Strong designation from the Competency & Credentialing Institute (CCI). The Certified Perioperative Nurse (CNOR) credential is the only accredited certification for perioperative registered nurses. Earning the CNOR is a mark of distinction and demonstrates a commitment to upholding the highest standards in patient safety.   The CNOR Strong designation is awarded annually to …Read More

St. Mary’s achieves accreditation for echocardiology procedures

St. Mary’s Cardiac and Vascular Services Laboratory has achieved accreditation from the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) on Echocardiography for procedures that use sound waves to detect and diagnose numerous heart conditions. With this accreditation, St. Mary’s becomes one of only a handful of providers in Georgia accredited for adult Transesophageal Echo (TEE) procedures. “This accreditation is a huge achievement,” said …Read More

Tanner Provides More Than 7,000 COVID-19 Vaccine Doses

Carrollton vaccination event draws almost 1,500 senior adults   Tanner Health System is continuing to expand the availability of COVID-19 vaccine in accord with state guidelines, topping 7,000 doses administered.   This week, the health system held second-dose vaccine clinics for its healthcare workers, as well as a massive first-dose vaccination event for area adults age 65 and older.   …Read More

SGMC Enhances Labor Experience with Revolutionary Birthing Beds

The Birthplace at South Georgia Medical Center recently upgraded its fleet of birthing beds to bring a new level of comfort and efficiency to the labor experience. The investment includes new patient beds, suitable for labor, delivery, recovery and post partum, which include many features that make the process easier for both mothers and their providers.    “This is just …Read More

One Organ Donor Can Save up to 75 Lives: Now is the Time to Donate Life

The patient was only 68 years old, but a stroke ended her life. As a registered organ donor, her passing was not in vain. Her generosity, and the efforts of Southeast Georgia Health System professionals, gave three people the gift of life. One of her kidneys was transplanted into a fellow Georgian, a mother of two. A 60-year-old man received …Read More

Second Round of Covid-19 Vaccine Given in Wayne

“Peace of mind” and “thankful.” Words given by Wayne Memorial Hospital Employee Janet Keith when describing her reaction to receiving her second dose of the Moderna Covid-19 vaccine. She adds that she is “praying it is available to all who want to get the vaccine soon.” Keith says, “We need 2021 to start being Covid-free as everyone needs ‘peace of …Read More

SGMC Expands Vaccination Sites to Berrien and Lanier Counties

South Georgia Medical Center will expand its COVID-19 vaccination efforts to its Berrien and Lanier Campuses beginning Monday, Jan. 25. Vaccinations will be by appointment only and recipients must meet the qualifications outlined by the Georgia Department of Public Health.   Appointments can be made online at sgmc.org. Eligibility includes: healthcare workers (physicians, nurses, laboratory technicians, EMS personnel, environmental services, …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Administers 4,000 COVID-19 Vaccine Doses in 8 Days

Since January 11, the effective date of Governor Kemp’s expansion of the COVID-19 vaccine beyond health care workers and long term care facility residents, Southeast Georgia Health System has administered nearly 4,000 vaccine doses. “We are very pleased at the response of our team members and community to receive the vaccine,” says Michael D. Scherneck, president and CEO. “The vaccine …Read More

Northside Hospital recognized as a “Best” employer by Comparably.com

Northside Hospital was recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in the last quarter of 2020 by workplace culture and compensation monitoring site  Comparably. Among all Top Large employers (more than 500 employees) across the United States, Northside ranked for Best Company Culture, Best Companies for Women and Best Companies for Diversity. Comparably’s annual “Best” lists showcase companies …Read More

Sacred Heart Hospital recognized with Leapfrog ‘A’ safety grade

January 18, 2021 – St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital was awarded an ‘A’ in the fall 2020 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Gradea national distinction recognizing Sacred Heart’s achievements  protecting patients from harm and providing safer health care.   The Leapfrog Group is an independent national watchdog organization committed to health care quality and safety. The Safety Grade assigns an ‘A’, ‘B’, …Read More

SGMC Begins COVID-19 Vaccination Drive Thru Site

South Georgia Medical Center will begin to vaccinate Georgians this week at the new COVID-19 vaccination drive thru. This comes after Georgia expanded its eligibility to include citizens 65 and older, area law enforcement, firefighters, and first responders. Vaccinations will be by appointment only and can be scheduled at sgmc.org.    SGMC’s vaccination site allows citizens to schedule an appointment …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM ANNOUNCES FIRST COVID-19 VACCINE CLINIC EVENTS

Residents across northeast Georgia who are 65 or older can now schedule an appointment to receive a COVID vaccine at one of several events hosted by Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS). Seven COVID-19 Vaccine Clinic events have been planned through the end of January, along with follow-up events at which participants will receive their second dose.             “It’s exciting to …Read More

St. Mary’s President & CEO addresses COVID vaccine questions

St. Mary’s is receiving numerous questions about COVID-19 vaccinations. We want to answer those questions as best we can in this fast-changing situation. The following reflects the best information we have at this moment.   First, most hospitals in Georgia – including all three hospitals in our system – are experiencing the highest number of COVID patients we have seen …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Participates in COVID-19 Vaccination Phase 1a Expansion

Southeast Georgia Health System has announced it will begin providing COVID-19 vaccines to individuals age 65 and over, as well as police officers, firefighters and other first responders, on Monday, Jan. 11, based on guidelines established by Governor Kemp on Dec. 30, 2020. Vaccines are only available by appointment. Due to the current limited vaccine supply, prioritization will be given …Read More

Covid-19 Vaccine Arrives in Wayne

Jesup – An early Christmas present arrived this year for healthcare workers at Wayne Memorial –   the first installment of Moderna’s Covid-19 Vaccine. Among the first in the group to receive the vaccine was Dr. Bill Headley. He shares he has experienced no real side effects, lest a sore arm for a couple of days. “I encourage folks to get …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Camden Campus Makes Georgia Trend’s Top Hospital List

Southeast Georgia Health System’s Camden Campus was recently named one of the 2020 Top Hospitals in the state by Georgia Trend. This leading business and lifestyle magazine featured the hospital rankings in the December 2020 issue; the Camden Campus ranked 14th in the small hospital category (fewer than 100 patient beds). “It’s an honor to be recognized as one of …Read More

Good Samaritan Hospital begins vaccinating frontline staff

As part of the nationwide effort to end the COVID-19 pandemic, St. Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital received a partial shipment of the COVID-19 vaccine Monday and began administering it to front-line colleagues and providers this morning. Among those working to administer the shots was hospital President Tanya Adcock, a registered nurse.   “We are excited about the safety and effectiveness …Read More

Tanner Receives First Round of COVID-19 Vaccine

On the morning of Dec. 22, the two nondescript delivery trucks backed up to the docks of Tanner Medical Center/Carrollton and Tanner Medical Center/Villa Rica, offloading the first doses of the vaccine that — along with continued public health measures — will give the region a chance to turn around the COVID-19 pandemic.    The hospitals received almost 2,000 doses of …Read More

St. Mary’s provides first doses of COVID-19 vaccine

As part of the nationwide effort to end the COVID-19 pandemic, St. Mary’s received a partial shipment of the COVID-19 vaccine Monday and began administering it to front-line colleagues and providers. Among those working to administer the shots was St. Mary’s President and CEO Montez Carter, a licensed pharmacist.   “We are excited about the safety and effectiveness of this …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM PROVIDING FIRST SHIPMENT OF COVID-19 VACCINE TO FRONTLINE WORKERS

Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) is now offering nearly 5,000 doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to frontline staff and physicians.             “It feels like Christmas came early,” says Carol Burrell, NGHS president and CEO. “It’s been a long eight months for our organization and our community, as we continue to see record numbers of COVID patients. We still have a …Read More

Rural Hospitals: Fighting for Survival

The COVID crisis has worsened the plight of the state’s most vulnerable hospitals. November 30, 2020 Susan Percy Addressing Crises: Monty Veazey, president and CEO of Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals, at Tift Regional Medical Center in Tifton Credit: Todd Stone When the doors closed at Cuthbert’s Southwest Georgia Regional Medical Center (SGRMC) last month, Randolph County lost more than …Read More

Wireless Monitoring System Improves Labor Experience at SGMC

The Birthplace at South Georgia Medical Center recently added advanced wireless technology for monitoring that provides mothers the freedom to safely move around during the labor process. The maternal/fetal wireless patch technology is a single patch system placed on the expectant mother’s abdomen. This cord-free, belt-free solution monitors maternal and fetal heart rate and uterine activity while offering patients more …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA MEDICAL CENTER NOW CERTIFIED AS PRIMARY STOKE CENTER AT THREE CAMPUSES

Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Barrow and NGMC Braselton were recently certified for the first time as Primary Stroke Centers by DNV GL Healthcare, shortly after NGMC Gainesville was recertified as a Primary Stroke Center. “Our health system continues to prove that it is dedicated to ensuring stroke patients in our region are offered the best care close to home,” …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Camden Campus Introduces Robotic Knee Replacement Surgery

Robotic knee surgery data indicates the technology has the potential to speed recovery and improve accuracy compared to standard procedures. If you live in Camden County and need knee surgery, Southeast Georgia Health System has some good news– robotic knee surgery technology is now available at the Health System’s Camden Campus.   The ROSA® Knee System provides precision guidance for …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM PLANS TO ADD NEW TOWER, EXPAND CLINICAL SERVICES, ENHANCE CARE AT NGMC GAINESVILLE

Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) plans to grow its hospital in Gainesville to meet the growing needs of the surrounding region by adding a new, multi-story tower as early as 2024. This future tower is part of Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville’s continued evolution into one of the state’s largest and most advanced community-based, non-profit hospitals. The tower, which …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM SEES RECORD NUMBER OF COVID-19 CASES AND BRACES FOR SURGE IN TESTING

Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) saw a surge in COVID-19 cases over the holiday weekend with 181 confirmed cases admitted on Tuesday, December 1, at its hospitals and long-term care facilities combined. The numbers of those needing testing and care are expected to continue rising in the coming days and weeks. “Both the percentage of tests coming back positive and …Read More

St. Mary’s donates 3 tons of frozen turkeys to those in need

St. Mary’s Health Care System and its colleagues and volunteers on the Monday before Thanksgiving donated 365 turkeys – weighing more than 6,200 pounds and with a value of more than $9,300 – to the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia, the Greene County Food Pantry and Iris Chandler Ministries to help families in need this holiday season.   Each year, …Read More

MALCOLM BALDRIGE NATIONAL QUALITY AWARD – NATION’S HIGHEST RECOGNITION FOR PERFORMANCE EXCELLENCE – AWARDED TO WELLSTAR PAULDING HOSPITAL

Hospital is first healthcare organization in Georgia – and second organization in the state – to receive the award   Wellstar Health System, one of Georgia’s largest and most integrated healthcare systems, today announced that Wellstar Paulding Hospital has been awarded the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award, the nation’s highest level of recognition for performance excellence. Wellstar Paulding Hospital is …Read More

November is National Home Care and Hospice Month

During November, the National Association for Home Care (NAHC) encourages all communities to celebrate National Home Care and Hospice Month, honoring the millions of nurses, home care aides, therapists and social workers who make a difference for the patients and families they serve. “For the aged, disabled or ill, staying in the homes they know and love can become increasingly …Read More

SGMC Lab Professionals Honored as Hospital Heroes

South Georgia Medical Center honored its laboratory professionals as the November Hospital Heroes at its monthly Board of Directors meeting.    According to Chief Nursing Officer Randy Smith, “Nurses and doctors all over the world are doing a phenomenal job day in and day out, but the role of lab professionals can not be overlooked as they have truly been …Read More

The Future of Hometown Health Care

Although coronavirus has brought some aspects in life to a standstill, the Southeast Georgia Health System Brunswick Campus Master Renovation and Expansion Project has not missed a beat. “We’ve been very fortunate that coronavirus has minimally impacted the project. Years of planning were dedicated to this project, and good planning often creates good luck,” said Tripp Stephens, vice president, Support …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM NOW PROVIDING STROKE PROCEDURES THAT SAVE LIVES, KEEP PEOPLE CLOSER TO HOME

When it comes to strokes, seconds could be the difference between full recovery and long-term effects. For decades, people could rely on Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) to provide clot-busting drugs that might save their lives, but they would have to be transferred to other hospitals outside the region if other critical procedures were needed. Now – thanks to NGMC …Read More

Georgia HEART Gives Taxpayers Opportunity to Earn Tax Credit When Supporting Southeast Georgia Health System Camden Campus

You have to pay taxes, but do you know what your tax dollars are used for? It’s your money, and whether you’re taxed $50 or $50,000, you should have a choice on how it’s used or who it benefits, and now you do. Georgia is the only state in the nation which is afforded the opportunity to financially support its …Read More

Celebrate a COVID Safe Halloween

Halloween is traditionally a fun night for children across the U.S., but the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has left parents wondering if they should celebrate this year, and if so, how to celebrate safely. Pediatricians from Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, Navicent Health offer tips to celebrate a COVID Safe Halloween. “It’s important to create as much normalcy for children …Read More

St. Mary’s providing free, fresh food to those in need

This October, St. Mary’s Hospital in Athens and St. Mary’s Sacred Heart Hospital in Lavonia are providing free, fresh food to people in need in our community.   Under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that the Farmers to Families Food Box Program will distribute up to $3 billion worth of fresh produce, …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA MEDICAL CENTER NAMED ONE OF THE NATION’S MOST WIRED HOSPITALS FOR SEVENTH TIME

Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) is the only hospital in Georgia to receive one of the highest levels of recognition for using technology to improve healthcare quality and cost. The College of Healthcare Information Management Executives (CHIME) included NGMC on its annual list of Healthcare’s Most Wired for 2020. This is the seventh year NGMC has made the list, and …Read More

Gov. Kemp Tours Tanner Medical Center/Carrollton

Thanks front-line healthcare workers, learns about open heart expansion   Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp was in Carrollton Wednesday, paying a visit to Tanner Medical Center/Carrollton to learn more about how community hospitals have responded to the COVID-19 pandemic and to talk to the healthcare workers on the front lines of the pandemic.   “COVID-19 has presented unprecedented challenges across our …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA HEALTH SYSTEM JOINS LHC GROUP TO FORM HOME HEALTHCARE SERVICE

Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) is happy to offer a new service to help patients transition from the hospital to their homes. Effective Oct. 1, NGHS and LHC Group, the preferred in-home healthcare partner for 350 leading hospitals around the country, will partner to launch Northeast Georgia Home Health in Gainesville. “We are thrilled to partner with LHC Group to …Read More

SGMC Recognizes Hospital Heroes

South Georgia Medical Center honored the Emergency Department and Emergency Medical Services as Hospital Heroes at the Hospital Authority of Valdosta Lowndes County Board meeting last week. According to Chief Nursing Officer Randy Smith, “We are currently in the middle of a worldwide pandemic of unprecedented proportions and today it truly is fitting to recognize these healthcare professionals as our …Read More

Hamilton providing safe care in middle of pandemic

Though processes, services and visitation look and feel different, you can be confident that Hamilton Health Care System (HHCS) will continue to provide safe care. “We are seeing a lot more people coming back into the hospital for screenings, surgeries and other necessary healthcare,” said Sandy McKenzie, COO. “It’s important to remember that delaying care, whether testing or treatment, could …Read More

Navicent Health Invests $1.2 Million in the Lives of Teammates, Raises Internal Minimum Wage

Navicent Health has increased its internal minimum wage from $7.25 per hour to $10.00 per hour, investing $1.2 million into the lives and careers of its teammates. Hourly workers will benefit from the increase, which exceeds the federal government’s minimum pay requirements. “At Navicent Health, we base our decisions on three categories – strategy, operations and people. Of these, our …Read More

Diagnostic mammography comes to St. Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital

Just in time for Breast Cancer Awareness Month, diagnostic mammography has come to St. Mary’s Good Samaritan Hospital. Diagnostic mammography can help provide women and their doctor with the answers they need after a screening mammogram shows an area of concern.   “This is great news for the roughly 10 percent of women who have a call-back after an area …Read More

Hamilton Physician Group offering rapid flu test

Hamilton Physician Group (HPG), part of Hamilton Health Care System, is offering ID NOW™ Influenza A & B 2, the fastest rapid molecular flu test, at its Convenient Care locations. The ID NOW™ delivers flu results in 13 minutes or less, making it faster than other molecular methods and more accurate than conventional rapid tests. “This rapid flu test is …Read More

St. Mary’s Health Care System has received the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award. The award recognizes the hospital’s commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines that are based on the latest scientific evidence.   St. Mary’s has received the Stroke Gold-Plus quality …Read More

SGMC Distributes 10K Masks to Community Partners

South Georgia Medical Center presented the Greater Valdosta United Way with 5,000 reusable cloth masks as part of its 10K Mask Challenge. The hospital’s Foundation launched the fundraising appeal in July, seeking to raise enough funds to purchase 10,000 masks to distribute to community members in need. The Foundation reached its goal in August making the purchase possible. SGMC will …Read More

Senior Care Center Visitor Cottages Keep Families Connected

In difficult times, necessity becomes the mother of invention. Southeast Georgia Health System’s Senior Care Centers in Brunswick and St. Marys have taken that to heart. Outside of each facility stands a collection of diminutive white cottages, each featuring a covered porch.   “Because of the pandemic, it was necessary to restrict visitors at the Senior Care Centers for the …Read More

SGMC Stroke Program Receives Top Award

The Stroke Program at South Georgia Medical Center was recognized, yet again, for excellence in stroke treatment. The hospital was just awarded the 2020 Get with the Guidelines- Stroke GOLD PLUS award from the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association for the seventh consecutive year. The award recognizes SGMC’s commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment …Read More

The Medical Center, Navicent Health Nationally Recognized for AFib Care

The Medical Center, Navicent Health (MCNH) has received the Get With The Guidelines®-AFIB Silver Quality Achievement Award for implementing specific quality improvement measures outlined by the American Heart Association and Heart Rhythm Society guidelines for the management of patients with atrial fibrillation (AFIB).   Get With The Guidelines-AFIB was developed to assist healthcare professionals to provide the most up-to-date, research-based …Read More

Early Detection of Prostate Cancer Saves Lives

It may surprise you to learn that prostate cancer is the second leading cause of death in American men, behind only lung cancer. It doesn’t have to be. With early detection, prostate cancer is very treatable. In fact, more than 3.1 million men have survived their diagnosis, thanks to screenings that led to early intervention.   To improve the health …Read More

Hamilton Medical Center receives Get With The Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award

Hamilton Medical Center (HMC) has received the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines Stroke Gold Plus Quality Achievement Award. The award recognizes the hospital’s commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines based on the latest scientific evidence.   HMC earned the award by meeting specific quality achievement measures …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Wound Care Center Recognized with National Award for Excellence in Wound Healing

Southeast Georgia Health System Wound Care Center physicians, leaders and clinicians recently gathered to celebrate the Robert A. Warriner III, M.D., Clinical Excellence Award. The Wound Care Center has scored in the top 10 percent of eligible Healogics® Wound Care Centers® on the Clinical Excellence measure, which is the Comprehensive Healing Rate weighted by wound mix. This is a way …Read More

Collaborative Partners Bring New Virtual Care Option to Midstate

Virtual Behavioral Health Integration Available to Midstate Residents   MACON, GA (Monday, August 24, 2020) – When Charlotte-based Atrium Health and Macon, Ga.-based Navicent Health announced their strategic combination in January 2019, one primary objective of the partnership was to improve the depth and breadth of services offered to healthcare consumers in the Georgia market, particularly in the area of …Read More

Hamilton Medical Center opens internal medicine clinic

Hamilton Medical Center began seeing patients in its new internal medicine clinic on Aug. 17. The clinic is a component of Hamilton’s new internal medicine physician residency program. Eighteen resident physicians will be treating patients at the clinic, under the supervision of an attending physician. The attending physicians are Daniel Grace, MD, Sarbjit Masson, MD, and Deidre Pierce, MD, program …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Receives Get With The Guidelines-Stroke Silver Plus Quality Achievement Award

Southeast Georgia Health System has received the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association’s Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke Silver Plus Quality Achievement Award. The award recognizes the hospital’s commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidelines based on the latest scientific evidence.   The Health System earned the award by meeting specific quality achievement …Read More

Northside Hospital Gwinnett begins $57 million expansion of emergency department; completion in fall of 2021

ATLANTA– Northside Hospital will expand the emergency department at Northside Hospital Gwinnett in Lawrenceville, Georgia, marking a significant milestone as the Northside-Gwinnett Medical Center merger approaches its first anniversary.   The project, which was approved by the Georgia Department of Community Health on Aug. 10, includes renovation of the existing emergency department and adjacent imaging services. A two-story addition adjacent …Read More

Atrium Health Brings Virtual Care Delivery System to Georgia

Patients diagnosed with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) may be able to receive hospital-level treatment in the comfort of their own homes. Today, Navicent Health – in collaboration with Atrium Health – announced its new and innovative virtual care delivery system, which is designed to protect the patient’s health, the health of others and prevent further spread of the virus. “We …Read More

Draffin Tucker Contributes $615,000 To Rural Hospitals Over Last Three Years Through State’s Tax Credit Program

In response to Georgia’s Rural Hospital Tax Credit Program, Draffin & Tucker, LLP has announced that with its 2020 contribution of $175,000, the firm has contributed $615,000 to eligible rural hospitals within the state over the last three years. “As a firm that has worked with rural hospitals for over 40 years, we understand just how important these hospitals are …Read More

NORTHEAST GEORGIA MEDICAL CENTER GAINESVILLE AND BRASELTON RECOGNIZED FOR EXCELLENCE IN STROKE CARE

Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Gainesville has been recertified as a Primary Stroke Center by DNV GL Healthcare (DNV) while NGMC Braselton received a stroke quality award from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association (AHA/ASA). “At NGMC Gainesville, we’re honored to have been able to serve our community and the entire North Georgia region as a Primary Stroke Center since …Read More

Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion Welcomes Wm. Edward Richards, MD, as new Medical Director

As a gynecologic oncologist and principal investigator for the Gynecologic Clinical Research Program, Dr. Richards has served in Savannah and the Low Country for the past 8 years A leader in new medical technologies and the latest cancer treatments is stepping into a new role as Medical Director for the Nancy N. and J.C. Lewis Cancer & Research Pavilion (LCRP) …Read More

A Decade of World Class Stroke Care!

The Medical Center, Navicent Health (MCNH) has earned its tenth consecutive “Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Gold Plus” Quality Achievement Award, an annual award presented by the American Heart Association / American Stroke Association (AHA) for excellence in stroke care.    In addition, MCNH has also been named to AHA’s “Target: StrokeSM Honor Roll Elite” for the fourth consecutive …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Launches #COVIDendswithme Challenge

In an attempt to help mitigate the increasing spread of COVID-19, Southeast Georgia Health System continues to strongly encourage everyone to protect their friends, family and neighbors by wearing a face covering and practicing social distancing when in public. Hopeful that sharing personal stories on social media will serve as an influential tool to flatten the curve, the Health System …Read More

Northside Hospital BMT Program ‘significantly’ exceeds expected survival rates for 11th year

For an 11th consecutive year, The Blood and Marrow Transplant (BMT) Program at Northside Hospital Cancer Institute has been recognized as having among the best survival outcomes in the United States for bone marrow transplants.   The data was reported in the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research Final 2019 Transplant Center Survival Report and from Be The …Read More

GEORGIA CANCER CENTER AMONG PROVIDERS AWARDED FIVE-YEAR GRANT FOR COLORECTAL CANCER PREVENTION

Administered through Georgia CORE, the CDC-funded program will bring colorectal screening, navigation and colonoscopies to 15,000 people in southeast and southwest Georgia.   ATLANTA – The Georgia Cancer Center at Augusta University is on a team of cancer care providers that received a five-year grant from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention in the amount of $795,560 per year to provide …Read More

Seeing a Need, Fulfilling a Need

“If you build it, they will come.” Most everyone is familiar with this takeoff of the phrase used in the 1989 film Field of Dreams, starring Kevin Costner. And most likely, one has also heard of the nursing shortage countrywide. Reasons for that shortage vary from an aging Baby Boomer population (including nurses nearing retirement) to advancements in medicine lengthening …Read More

St. Mary’s resuming services with focus on safety

Due to the success of preventive measures to slow the spread of COVID-19 in our region, all hospitals, outpatient centers and physician offices in the St. Mary’s system are taking steps to safely accommodate ongoing patient needs, including elective surgeries, tests and procedures, and patient visitation.   “We are prepared so that our patients are protected,” said President and CEO …Read More

Peeples Cancer Institute treating patients, providing hope

When guests enter Peeples Cancer Institute (PCI), they are welcomed by a greeter who is equipped to answer questions and escort them where needed. The institute has a spacious lobby that was specifically designed to provide a calm, relaxing atmosphere.   “First impressions are important and our intent is to clearly convey confidence, tranquility and healing,” says Ernie Elemento, vice …Read More

In a BRG | Prism webinar, nurse leaders share their experiences with the COVID-19 pandemic:

Gara Edelstein, MSN, RN, NE-BC, System Chief Nursing Officer, Catholic Health Services of Long Island, and Chief Nursing Officer, Good Samaritan Hospital, West Islip, New York Kim Richard, MHA, MSN, RN, Chief Nursing Officer, Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, Hartford, Connecticut The objective of the Nurse Executive Forum series is to share information concerning the onset, peak, and decline …Read More

Bringing Intensive Care to Rural Areas…Virtually

New Program Brings Virtual ICUs to Hospitals in Baldwin, Monroe, Peach Counties Access to health services is difficult for many Georgians, particularly those in rural areas of the state. Many Georgians have to travel long distances from home to access basic medical services. When the need is critical, accessing the proper level of care can become even more challenging. Navicent …Read More

Telescope Health Expands Telehealth Services Into Georgia in Collaboration with Southeast Georgia Health System

Digital health service is designed to increase access to quality health care     JACKSONVILLE, Fla., June 4, 2020 – Telescope Health is bringing its virtual health care services to Georgia through a collaboration with Brunswick, Georgia-based Southeast Georgia Health System to provide COVID-19 testing to residents across the health system’s six-county service area. Telescope Health will also introduce wide-spread …Read More

COVID-19 Challenges and Rapid Recovery Podcast

BRG’s Mukesh Gangwal and Paul Osborne moderated a discussion with Dr. K. Ranga Krishnan (CEO, Rush University System for Health), Daniel DeBarba Jr. (CFO, Catholic Health Services of Long Island), and Tri MacDonald (president, BRG). In this extract from their COVID-19 Challenges and Rapid Recovery podcast, they discuss COVID-19 governmental funding sources and how health systems will restart operations under a new-normal environment.    

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp Tours Temporary Medical Unit at Navicent Health

On Wednesday, May 27, Gov. Brian Kemp visited Macon-Bibb County to tour the temporary medical unit (TMU) at The Medical Center, Navicent Health. At the request of the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA), Macon-Bibb County and Navicent Health worked closely with the state to stand up a temporary medical unit in Macon-Bibb County.   “Constructing the TMU was a precautionary …Read More

LOCAL MARTIAL ARTIST, PERSONAL TRAINER BACK TO NORMAL AFTER STROKE

Greg and Jeri Mansur were away for a little bit of a staycation when a stroke struck. Greg was out buying some medicine for Jeri’s headache. They exchanged a few texts. But, when he returned to the hotel, he found Jeri, her face against the ground. “He came back, and he saw me on the floor,” Jeri, now 63, said. …Read More

Hospitals encourage donations in hour of need

HEART program allows Georgians to direct their state income tax to save local healthcare access   Even as they continue to heroically respond to the COVID-19 pandemic, community hospitals are facing critical financial distress that puts their futures in doubt. They need help to ensure our critical healthcare infrastructure survives to serve their region’s ongoing healthcare needs long after we’ve …Read More

Hamilton Medical Center reminding community members to B.E. F.A.S.T.

Hamilton Medical Center (HMC) is encouraging community members to be aware about the dangers of stroke and steps to take to avoid stroke. May is National Stroke Awareness Month. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel that carries oxygen and nutrients to the brain is either blocked by a clot or ruptures. When that happens, part of the brain cannot …Read More

Hamilton Medical Center recognized for quality medical excellence, patient safety

Hamilton Medical Center was recently recognized for medical excellence and patient safety quality by CareChex®. HMC was ranked in the top 10 percent in the nation in five categories for 2020. The awards are based on a comprehensive quality scoring system that compares inpatient quality performance across general, acute and non-federal U.S. hospitals. For Medical Excellence, HMC was recognized in …Read More

How to Help Your Local Hospital during COVID-19

Georgians Benefit from Rural Hospital Tax Credit Program In the best of times, it’s important that rural communities have access to health care. In the worst of times – one could argue that describes the COVID-19 outbreak – it’s especially critical. But coronavirus isn’t just a threat to public health, it also impacts infrastructure, such as the rural hospitals communities …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Resumes Elective Surgeries

Southeast Georgia Health System resumed elective outpatient surgeries on May 4; elective inpatient surgeries will resume on May 11. The services are subject to specific safety guidelines and patients must test negative for COVID-19 within four days of their procedure.   “Over the last several weeks, we have developed effective and efficient operations to manage our COVID-19 patients,” says Vincent …Read More

SGMC Partners with Mayo Clinic Study for Treatment of COVID-19 Patients

Convalescent Blood Donors Needed Locally South Georgia Medical Center treated it’s first COVID-19 positive patient with convalescent plasma on Tuesday as part of the Mayo Clinic’s COVID-19 Convalescent Plasma Study. Convalescent plasma refers to blood plasma collected from people who have recovered from COVID-19. That plasma is then used to treat inpatients with advanced COVID-19 illness. According to Chief Medical …Read More

Urgent Health Care Needs Should Be Prioritized Even During A Pandemic

Across America, people worry about being exposed to the coronavirus. Hospitals and doctors, straining to cope with the outbreak, have postponed elective surgeries and some routine procedures. Unfortunately, accidents and other health concerns will still happen, and usually at the worst times. What should you do if you have an emergency or urgent medical issue during these uncertain times? “We’re …Read More

Collaborative Partners Bring Virtual Care Options to Midstate

When Charlotte-based Atrium Health and Macon, Ga.-based Navicent Health announced their strategic combination in January 2019, one primary objective of the partnership was to improve the depth and breadth of services offered to healthcare consumers in the Georgia market, particularly in the area of virtual care.   At that time, the two health systems announced that Atrium Health would invest …Read More

SGMC Receives In Hospital COVID-19 Testing Capability

South Georgia Medical Center’s Laboratory has received its initial supply of COVID-19 testing kits and beginning next week will have the ability to preform tests with a rapid turnaround of less than two hours.   SGMC maintains a state-of-the-art full service lab which is accredited by The Joint Commission and operates both the Cepheid and BioFire Molecular Diagnostic Testing platforms, …Read More

SGMC Opens ER Triage Tent

As a part of South Georgia Medical Center’s COVID-19 Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), SGMC has now opened an Emergency Room Triage Tent to help coordinate care for a higher volume of Emergency Room patients with COVID-19 symptoms. The 1,500 sq. ft. air-conditioned tent is designed to accommodate a larger number of patients seeking medical evaluation and care in an efficient …Read More

Young and Healthy? You’re Not Immune to Coronavirus

You’re young, healthy and bored. Before you tempt fate by throwing a coronavirus party, consider these current numbers from the Georgia Department of Public Health:   60% of people who tested positive for coronavirus were between 18-59 years old 294 people have died from the virus in Georgia Georgia has over 7,500 cases 101 cases have been reported in Southeast …Read More

Augusta University Health extends COVID-19 testing to rural hospitals

As the COVID-19 outbreak sweeps across the United States, rural areas are at risk of getting hit hard by the pandemic.   Augusta University Health has expanded its capacity for COVID-19 testing and is now acting as a reference lab to provide medical centers in rural Georgia and South Carolina with accurate results more timely.   “We know that having more timely …Read More

Georgia Alliance For Community Hospital Statement Following Gov. Kemp’s Announced Plan to Increase Coronavirus Testing Capacity to 3,000 Per Day

(Atlanta, GA) – The Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals (GACH) today released the following statement from Monty Veazy, spokesman of GACH’s “Georgia Alliance for Community Hospitals” initiative, after Governor Brian Kemp’s announcement to increase coronavirus testing in the state of Georgia:   “I first wish to extend my gratitude to the hospital workers who are battling this pandemic on the …Read More

Disaster Distress Helpline Provides Immediate Crisis Counseling to People Affected by the Coronavirus Pandemic

Jesup, GA – Natural disasters – including such pandemics as the coronavirus outbreak – can be overwhelming and seriously affect emotional health. The Disaster Distress Helpline, 1-800-985-5990, can provide immediate counseling to anyone who is seeking help in coping with the mental or emotional effects caused by developments related to the coronavirus pandemic. The Helpline is a 24-hour-a-day, seven-day-a-week and …Read More

COVID-19 Virtual Screenings Available at Wayne Memorial

Contain the Strain with Smart Care 24/7   Jesup, GA – With the global spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus), social distancing has become an important tool to stop the spread of the virus. In order to make screenings more accessible to our community, Wayne Memorial/St. Joseph’s/Candler Medical Group is offering a virtual option for those with respiratory symptoms seeking evaluation and …Read More

Southeast Georgia Health System Opens COVID-19 Screening Hotline

On Monday, March 30, at 8 a.m., Southeast Georgia Health System will begin screening patients for coronavirus symptoms through a free COVID-19 Screening Hotline, 912-466-7222.  The Hotline will be staffed with Health System nurses and advanced practice providers and will offer immediate access to Southeast Georgia Physician Associates health care providers, if needed. Patients who meet the criteria for an in-person …Read More