News

SGMC Health has been named a High Performing Hospital for Colon Cancer Surgery by U.S. News & World Report, placing it among just 503 hospitals nationwide recognized for exceptional patient outcomes and quality care.

The annual ratings evaluate nearly 4,500 hospitals across the country, measuring factors such as patient survival, recovery after surgery, surgical experience, cancer-specific accreditation, and the resources available to support patients throughout treatment and recovery.

“This recognition speaks to the quality, expertise, and coordination that define colon cancer care at SGMC Health,” said Pankaj Agrawal, MD, Senior Vice President and Chief Medical Officer at SGMC Health. “Our teams are committed to delivering excellent outcomes while ensuring patients across our region have access to compassionate, personalized care close to home.”

A key factor in SGMC Health’s High Performing designation was its ability to help patients successfully recover at home after surgery, reflecting strong surgical outcomes, coordinated follow-up care, patient education, and discharge planning.

Because colon cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, access to high-quality screening, diagnosis, and treatment is critical. SGMC Health provides comprehensive gastrointestinal and colorectal services, from preventive screenings and advanced diagnostics to surgery and cancer care. The health system’s colorectal surgery team includes James Davis, MD; Jared Sanders, MD; Harold Howe, MD; Stephen Zeigler, MD; Devan Lenhart, DO; Alec Seaton, MD; and John Buchanan, MD.

“This recognition reflects the dedication and expertise of the many professionals who care for our patients throughout their surgical journey,” said Harold Howe, MD, Chief of General Surgery and fellowship-trained colorectal surgeon at SGMC Health. “From the surgeons and operating room teams to the nurses and staff who prepare patients for surgery, support their recovery, and help them transition safely home, outstanding outcomes are only possible because of their teamwork and commitment to patient care.”

SGMC Health is the most comprehensive health system serving South Georgia and North Florida. SGMC Health operates four hospitals across Lowndes, Berrien, and Lanier counties. The system also operates ambulance services, an extensive medical office network, a cancer center, hospice facility, retirement center, skilled nursing facility, imaging centers and urgent cares. Service lines of regional prominence include heart and vascular, stroke, trauma, cancer, orthopedics, surgery, and women and infants.