Unimpeachable Credentials SGMC
Annual Report FY2023

Unimpeachable Credentials

Trauma Milestone Achieved at SGMC Health

Car crash. Fall. Motorcycle accident. Gunshot wound. Traumatic injury. When the worst happens, SGMC Health is prepared. 

In June 2023, SGMC Health was designated as a Level III Trauma Center by the Georgia Department of Public Health. This significant milestone was more than two years in the making. It signifies SGMC Health's enhanced capabilities to provide comprehensive and specialized care to patients with traumatic injuries.  

As a designated trauma center, SGMC Health has met rigorous standards and demonstrated the ability to deliver specialized trauma care services promptly and effectively. This designation is a testament to the health system's commitment to providing the highest level of care to patients in critical conditions, ensuring they receive the best chances for survival and recovery.

“We are very excited to be recognized as a Level III Trauma Center and to be a part of the Georgia Trauma System, a highly organized system of care that makes a tremendous difference in the lives of all in our state. This designation is a true testament to the hard work and dedication of our remarkable physicians and staff,” said Mr. Dean.

A Level III Trauma Center is prepared to provide an advanced level of care to trauma patients before they even arrive at the hospital. The designation signifies organized care beginning with emergency medical services, fire, and law enforcement response, and continuing through every aspect of patient care. SGMC Health’s emergency department has undergone specialized training, developed protocol, and implemented necessary equipment for the immediate assessment, resuscitation, surgical intervention, and stabilization of injured patients.   

SGMC Health is now one of 10 hospitals designated as a Level III Trauma Center in the state of Georgia. The closest trauma centers are 45 and 90 miles away, a significant distance in the case of time-sensitive trauma care. In addition, SGMC Health fills a needed gap for a trauma center along Interstate 75 in South Georgia. In 2023, more than 2,000 trauma patients were treated at SGMC Health, and nearly half of those required hospitalization. 

1,100
Man Hours of Joint Education with EMS, Fire and Law Enforcement coordinated through Trauma and EMS
2,084
Trauma Patients treated at SGMC in 2023
755
Trauma Patients Admitted
24,921
Requests for EMS

Trauma Director Emily Brown, who has spearheaded the trauma designation effort, emphasizes that this is a tremendous accomplishment that will greatly benefit the residents of our communities and service areas.  

“Our team has worked so hard to bring this program to our hometown hospital to better serve our patients and their families,” she shared. “We are excited about building and expanding trauma care for many years to come to meet our community’s needs.”   

SGMC Health’s trauma program is equipped with 24/7 coverage by skilled surgeons and specialized staff to care for patients at a moment’s notice. This includes seamless collaboration with related departments such as imaging, laboratory, and surgery to provide safe and efficient care.  

“The hard work of our entire hospital team, as well as the first responder agencies, was highlighted during our trauma survey,” said Jared Sanders, MD, Trauma Medical Director. “We are so grateful for the support of our hospital and our community.” 

SGMC Health treats patients who have suffered traumatic injuries from car crashes, motorized vehicle accidents, falls, gunshot wounds, violence, and more. Trauma injuries represent the leading cause of death for people under 44 and the fourth leading cause of death for all ages.  

SGMC Health’s trauma program also offers injury prevention education and community outreach, regularly collaborating with area first responders to offer emergency training initiatives.  

To learn more, visit sgmc.org.  

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A Standard of Safety: Meet SGMC Health's HRO Champions

SGMC Health's transformation into a high reliability organization marks a significant milestone in its commitment to excellence and patient safety. Through rigorous implementation of protocols, continuous improvement initiatives, and a culture of accountability, SGMC Health has cultivated an environment where errors are minimized, and patient outcomes are optimized. By fostering open communication, empowering staff to speak up about potential issues, and prioritizing systematic processes, SGMC Health ensures that every aspect of its operations aligns with the highest standards of reliability and safety. This dedication not only enhances patient trust but also positions SGMC Health as a leader in the healthcare industry, setting a benchmark for excellence and inspiring others to follow suit. 
 
Meet our HRO Champions who play a pivotal role in promoting and implementing the principles and practices of high reliability within our health system.

  • Brittany Pych

  • Christina Okuma

  • Bryant Alonso

  • Chantel Williams

  • Kyle Romadka

  • Bobbie Brooks

  • Shug Pleas

  • Geoff Hardy

  • Kayla Turner

  • Niki Tyre

  • Marquez Roney

  • Elijah Jones

  • Brett Richardson

SGMC Annual Report FY2023 UNMATCHED EFFICIENCIES

Economic Impact and Community Benefit

FY2022

$ 1,003,466,976
Total Output/Income Generated
$ 519,544,962
Total Household Earnings Generated
10,289
Total Jobs Due to Hospital Presence
$ 16,769,332
Uncompensated Indigent Care
$ 7,886,738
Uncompensated Charity Care
$ 13,870,788
Uncompensated Bad Debt Incurred on Health Care Services Provided
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