Unequaled Access to Care

Transforming the Patient Experience

One of the most anticipated aspects of the project is the Women and Infants Tower, a state-of-the-art facility designed to revolutionize maternity and neonatal care.

Featuring a modern birthing center, a new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and a dedicated entrance, the tower is set to redefine what it means to welcome new life into the world. 

The Emergency and Trauma Center will also see a major transformation. As the region’s demand for emergency services continues to grow, the new center will introduce additional patient rooms, trauma-ready spaces, and the latest in life-saving technology. 

In addition, the hospital’s campus redesign will make it easier than ever for patients to navigate SGMC Health’s facilities.

A new main entrance, relocated from Pendleton Drive to Woodrow Wilson Drive, will improve traffic flow, enhance accessibility, and create a welcoming gateway to world-class care. 

A Catalyst for Economic Growth 

The SGMC Health Foundation has set an ambitious goal to raise $10 million toward the expansion, reinforcing the community’s investment in its future. 

A Commitment to Innovation and Excellence 

Physicians, project partners, and hospital leaders all agree: this project is a defining moment for SGMC Health. 

Jared Sanders, MD, Past Medical Chief of Staff and Board-Certified General Surgeon, highlighted the profound impact this expansion will have on patient care. “The ability to provide cutting-edge services in a facility designed for the future is a game-changer for both physicians and patients.” 

Leaders from Goodwyn Mills Cawood (architecture and engineering), Hoar Construction, and Adams Management Services echoed similar sentiments, recognizing the collaborative effort that has gone into making this vision a reality. 

“This world-class facility is the result of months of planning and design efforts,” said Joe Gordy, Vice President at Adams Management Services. “It’s an honor to contribute to a project that will leave a lasting legacy in South Georgia.” 

A New Era for SGMC Health 

With construction set to be completed near the end of 2026, SGMC Health is well on its way to redefining healthcare for South Georgia. While work is underway, the hospital remains committed to seamless operations, ensuring patients receive uninterrupted care. 

As Valdosta Mayor Scott James Matheson aptly put it, “This expansion isn’t just about infrastructure. It’s about investing in the future health and wellbeing of our community.” 

For updates, renderings, and project details, visit sgmc.org/growth. 

A Brighter Future for Rural Healthcare 

SGMC Health’s commitment to rural healthcare extends beyond emergency services. SGMC Health Berrien offers a range of medical care, including inpatient and outpatient services, 3-D mammography, a geriatric psychiatric unit, pulmonary rehabilitation, and a substance abuse center. The new ER is just one step in ensuring continued, high-quality care for generations to come. 

“This new Emergency Department is more than a building. It is a lifeline for those needing accessible and high-quality healthcare,” said SGMC Health Chairman of the Board Sam Allen. 

Georgia State Representative Penny Houston echoed this sentiment, expressing deep gratitude for the collaborative effort that brought this vision to life. “This is a gift to our community that would not have been possible without the time, talent, and treasures of so many. SGMC Health has given the people of our area and of Berrien County better health for the future, and for that, I am so proud.” 

As the doors of the new Emergency Department opened, SGMC Health Berrien reaffirmed its mission: to provide cutting-edge healthcare while preserving the strong community values that have defined it for decades. 

For more information about SGMC Health Berrien and its services, visit sgmc.org/berrien.

Transforming Heart Valve Treatment 

SGMC Health also recently reached another major milestone with the successful completion of its first transcarotid access Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR).

This less-invasive procedure provides an alternative for patients who cannot undergo traditional groin-access TAVR, offering life-changing treatment for those with severe aortic stenosis. 

Since launching its Structural Heart Clinic in 2022, SGMC Health has completed over 120 TAVR procedures, demonstrating its expertise in minimally invasive heart valve replacements.

"The transcarotid TAVR approach expands our ability to provide safe, effective treatment for high-risk patients," said Colby Ruiz, MD, Vascular Surgeon. 

A Commitment to Excellence 

SGMC Health is home to the region’s only open-heart surgery program, a structural heart center, and a comprehensive electrophysiology program—offering world-class care close to home.

As a Level I Emergency Cardiac Care Center, the hospital continues to push the boundaries of innovation, ensuring that every patient receives top-tier, life-saving care when they need it most. 

To learn more about SGMC Health’s advanced cardiac services, visit sgmc.org. 

At SGMC Health, every second counts when it comes to saving lives.

From the moment a call for help is made to the critical first minutes of treatment in the trauma bay, the health system continues to push the boundaries of emergency medical care.

Recent advancements, including the immediate availability of emergent blood in the trauma bay, strategic investments in Emergency Medical Services (EMS), and expanded EMS coverage into Brooks County are strengthening SGMC Health’s ability to provide rapid, life-saving interventions. 

Immediate Blood Transfusions: A Game-Changer in Trauma Care 

For trauma patients experiencing severe blood loss, the difference between life and death often hinges on mere moments.

SGMC Health has taken a major step forward in trauma treatment by ensuring emergent blood is readily available at the bedside in its trauma bay. This advancement allows for immediate transfusions, dramatically reducing treatment delays and improving patient survival rates. 

"The ability to provide immediate blood transfusions at the bedside is a game-changer for trauma care," said Emily Brown, Director of EMS and Trauma. "This initiative aligns with our commitment to delivering the highest level of trauma care, reducing treatment times, and ultimately saving more lives." 

This enhancement builds upon SGMC Health’s designation as a Level III Trauma Center, a distinction awarded by the Georgia Department of Public Health in June 2023. As one of only 10 Level III Trauma Centers in the state, SGMC Health ensures patients receive advanced trauma care, from emergency response in the field to surgical intervention and stabilization at the hospital. The trauma program includes 24/7 coverage by skilled surgeons and specialized staff, further cementing SGMC Health’s role as a leader in emergency medicine. 

Strengthening EMS for a Growing Region

Life-saving care begins long before a patient reaches the hospital doors. SGMC Health’s EMS team serves as the critical first link in the chain of survival, providing rapid assessment, treatment, and transport for patients facing medical emergencies such as trauma, strokes, and cardiac events. 

"One of the defining strengths of our EMS program is its seamless integration with the broader healthcare system," said Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Randy Smith. "EMS personnel are integral to the treatment process, adeptly identifying and responding to critical conditions. Their ability to rapidly assess and transport patients to appropriate medical facilities significantly enhances patient outcomes, reducing the risk of long-term disability or death." 

With an ever-growing service area, SGMC Health continues to invest in its EMS workforce and technology. To attract and retain top-tier EMS professionals, the health system recently introduced an enhanced benefits package, which includes increased base pay, a $15,000 recruitment bonus, tuition reimbursement, and expanded opportunities for training and career advancement. 

Beyond workforce investments, SGMC Health is also equipping its ambulances with state-of-the-art technology, including power load stretcher systems, traffic preemption devices, and LUCAS devices, which provide automated chest compressions during cardiac emergencies. 

Expanding EMS Coverage to Brooks County 

In July 2024, SGMC Health proudly expanded its EMS coverage to Brooks County, further strengthening emergency response services in South Georgia. Residents of Brooks County now benefit from: 

• Two Advanced Life Support ambulances available 24/7 
• One Quick Response Vehicle, staffed with a Paramedic Supervisor, 12 hours a day, seven days a week 
• Seamless access to SGMC Health’s Level III Trauma Center, Certified Primary Stroke Center, and the region’s most sophisticated heart program 

Beyond emergency response, SGMC Health EMS is committed to community engagement. The team provides medical standby coverage for local events, including football games and community gatherings, and offers free training for public safety agencies, schools, and businesses upon request. 

"As our region continues to grow, so too does our volume of EMS requests," Brown explained. "We recognize that our EMS team is the frontline of emergency care, and we are committed to ensuring they have the resources, training, and support needed to continue delivering high-quality care." 

With this expansion, SGMC Health EMS now covers over 1,600 square miles—the largest EMS coverage area in Georgia—across Lowndes, Lanier, Echols, and Brooks counties. This ensures that residents throughout the region have access to the highest level of emergency medical care when it matters most. 

A Vision for the Future of Emergency Care 

Through continuous innovation in trauma response and EMS, SGMC Health is reinforcing its commitment to delivering exceptional, life-saving care when it matters most. By integrating advanced protocols, cutting-edge technology, and a dedicated team of highly trained professionals, SGMC Health remains at the forefront of emergency and trauma services in the region. 

For more information about SGMC Health’s trauma and emergency services, visit sgmc.org. 

In just a few short years, SGMC Health has made remarkable strides in medical education, shaping the future of healthcare in South Georgia.

Since launching its Internal Medicine Residency Program in 2022, the health system has rapidly expanded its Graduate Medical Education (GME) offerings, adding a Transitional Year Residency set to begin in July 2025 and a Family Medicine Residency following in 2026. 

This growth reflects SGMC Health’s dedication to addressing the nationwide physician shortage, particularly in rural communities. Research shows that doctors are more likely to practice near the institutions where they complete their training, making these new residency programs a critical investment in the region’s long-term healthcare stability. 

Building a Strong Foundation in Medical Training 

The Internal Medicine Residency, developed in partnership with Mercer University School of Medicine, has already welcomed three classes of residents, with a full cohort of 24 physicians now training at SGMC Health. These doctors gain hands-on experience in hospital and clinical settings, honing their skills under the leadership of a dedicated team of faculty physicians. 

Joseph Hayes, MD, SGMC Health’s Designated Institutional Official and Associate Campus Dean for Mercer University School of Medicine, expressed excitement over the program’s impact. “We have the privilege of training the next generation of physicians with the foundational skills needed to take care of the community. This benefits both our patients and the doctors, ensuring high-quality healthcare in the region.” 

Hands-On Training at SGMC Internal Medicine Park Avenue 

A key component of SGMC Health’s residency training is SGMC Internal Medicine Park Avenue, where resident physicians gain invaluable hands-on experience in an outpatient setting. Also referred to as a continuity clinic, this facility allows residents to provide primary care under the guidance of experienced faculty, including Dr. Hayes, who oversees patient care and clinical skills development. 
 
Since opening in 2022, SGMC Internal Medicine Park Avenue has seen more than 10,000 patient visits, highlighting its significant role in providing accessible, high-quality healthcare to the community. 

Patients who visit the clinic benefit from the resident-led care model in several ways. They receive thorough evaluations from physicians who are not only well-trained but also supervised by a seasoned medical director. Additionally, because residents do not yet have an extensive patient roster, they are able to spend more time with each individual, ensuring a comprehensive and personalized approach to care. 

Beyond improving access to primary care, SGMC Internal Medicine Park Avenue plays a critical role in shaping the future of healthcare in South Georgia. By participating in resident training, patients contribute to the education of new physicians, helping to cultivate a skilled workforce that will serve the region for years to come. 

Expanding Opportunities with New Residencies

With the success of the Internal Medicine program, SGMC Health pursued new avenues to further enhance its medical training infrastructure. 

In March 2024, the health system received accreditation for its Transitional Year Residency, an essential program for physicians pursuing advanced specialties such as anesthesiology, radiology, and neurology. Led by Program Director Megan Gallagher, DO, the one-year residency will begin welcoming its first class of 10 residents in July 2025. 

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to expand SGMC Health’s GME department to include a Transitional Year Program,” said Dr. Gallagher. “We are excited to train future physicians who will make a meaningful impact and provide excellent, compassionate care to our community.” 

Not stopping there, SGMC Health recently secured accreditation for a Family Medicine Residency Program, set to launch in July 2026. Family Medicine plays a crucial role in primary care, with physicians trained to address a broad spectrum of healthcare needs, from OB/GYN services to pediatric care. 

Program Director Madison Hill, DO, emphasized the importance of this addition. “Family Medicine is a vital specialty, serving as a cornerstone of primary care and improving access to critical services,” she said. The program will begin recruiting for its first class of eight residents in late 2025. 

A Lasting Impact on South Georgia 

Beyond increasing access to quality healthcare, SGMC Health’s growing residency programs offer lasting benefits for the region. Resident physicians not only provide essential care but also become deeply rooted in the community—renting apartments, buying homes, and supporting local businesses. Their presence helps fuel the local economy while ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled physicians to serve the area for years to come. 

“Lowndes County and the number of patients who choose SGMC Health for care continue to grow,” said Dr. Hayes. “Having a robust GME program will help attract and retain physicians, securing long-term healthcare stability for our community.” 

In addition to its residency programs, SGMC Health has expanded its role as a clinical training site for third- and fourth-year medical students from Mercer University School of Medicine. This partnership further reinforces SGMC Health’s commitment to shaping the next generation of doctors and strengthening the healthcare landscape in South Georgia. 

As SGMC Health continues to grow, its dedication to education, innovation, and community impact remains clear. With each new residency class, the health system takes another step toward a future where high-quality healthcare is not just accessible but thriving in South Georgia. 

For more information, visit sgmc.org. 

When SGMC Health launched its podcast What Brings You in Today? in January 2024, the goal was simple: to connect with the community in a fresh, engaging way.

One year later, the podcast has exceeded expectations, becoming an award-winning series that brings expert medical insights straight to listeners in an approachable, conversational format. 

With 29 episodes and counting, the podcast has tackled everything from heart health to hospice care, shedding light on topics that matter most to patients and families.

Hosted by SGMC Health’s marketing team, the series invites seasoned physicians and medical professionals to share their expertise, creating a platform where healthcare feels both accessible and personal. 

SGMC Health is making waves in the world of digital healthcare, earning the prestigious Epic Gold Stars Level 9 designation, a distinction that places the health system among the top 35 percent of hospitals nationwide using the Epic electronic health record (EHR) system. This recognition is more than just an award; it’s a testament to SGMC Health’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance patient care and streamline operations. 

What Does Level 9 Mean for Patients? 

Epic’s Gold Stars Program measures how well healthcare organizations are utilizing their EHR systems, assessing factors like patient access, clinical quality, and provider efficiency. To achieve Level 9, SGMC Health successfully implemented at least 85 percent of Epic’s most advanced features, improving everything from faster appointment scheduling and secure messaging to enhanced physician workflows and real-time health analytics. 

For patients, this means a seamless, more connected healthcare experience. Through Epic’s MyChart portal, they can access their medical records, review test results, schedule appointments, and communicate with their providers—all at their fingertips. 

Innovation in Action 

“This designation reflects the incredible work of our teams who have pushed the boundaries of what’s possible with EHR technology,” said Zach White, Director of Enterprise Applications at SGMC Health. “By optimizing our digital tools, we’re not just improving efficiency. We’re enhancing the quality of care our patients receive every day.” 

With over 4,500 healthcare professionals actively using SGMC Health’s Epic platform, the hospital system has created a digital ecosystem that promotes better coordination, safer treatment plans, and an improved patient experience. Whether in the emergency room, a specialist’s office, or a routine wellness check-up, Epic ensures that every provider has the most up-to-date patient information at their fingertips. 

Setting the Standard for Digital Health 

Achieving Level 9 is no small feat, and it solidifies SGMC Health’s position as a leader in digital healthcare innovation. As technology continues to reshape the medical landscape, SGMC Health is staying ahead of the curve, setting new standards for efficiency, accuracy, and patient-centered care. 

Want to see SGMC Health’s digital transformation in action? Log into MyChart today at https://mychart.sgmc.org and experience the future of healthcare. 

SGMC Health is ushering in a new era of convenience, precision, and accessibility in diagnostic imaging. Through innovative technology investments and cutting-edge equipment, patients now have more control over their medical records and access to some of the most advanced imaging tools available. 

PocketHealth: Empowering Patients with Instant Access 

Gone are the days of waiting for CDs to access medical imaging. SGMC Health now offers PocketHealth, a secure, patient-centered platform that allows individuals to store, view, and share their diagnostic images seamlessly from any device. 

“By eliminating the need for patients to physically collect their images, we’re improving both efficiency and the patient experience,” explains Chuck Marshburn, Vice President and Chief Information Officer. “Patients can now download and share their imaging via fax at no cost, all through the easy-to-use SGMC Health patient portal.” 

This advancement not only enhances convenience but also enables patients to play a more active role in their healthcare journey. By having immediate access to high-quality images, they can engage in more informed discussions with their physicians, leading to better decision-making and improved outcomes. 

$16 Million Investment in Advanced Imaging 

Recognizing the critical role of imaging in diagnosis and treatment planning, SGMC Health has made significant investments—totaling $16 million over the past four years—into cutting-edge imaging technologies. This commitment ensures that patients across all SGMC Health campuses receive the highest standard of care. 

“By incorporating state-of-the-art imaging equipment, such as MRI, CT, Mammography, and Ultrasound, we are delivering more accurate diagnoses while also improving patient safety and comfort,” says Randy Smith, Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. “Early detection is key, and these technologies allow for faster and more precise identification of diseases and conditions.” 

Introducing the Latest MRI Scanner 

One of the latest advancements at SGMC Health is the Siemens MAGNETOM VIDA 3 Tesla (3T) MRI scanner, a breakthrough in imaging technology. This high-powered MRI system, featuring Siemens’ BioMatrix Technology, tailors each scan to the patient’s unique anatomy, ensuring optimal image quality and more accurate diagnoses. 

Designed with patient comfort in mind, the VIDA system features a larger bore, a wider table, improved lighting, and a quieter scanning experience. Additionally, patients can listen to their favorite music while undergoing the scan, easing anxiety often associated with MRI procedures. 

“This system represents a significant investment in the well-being of our patients,” says Smith. “Not only does it enhance comfort, but it also expands our diagnostic capabilities, allowing us to perform whole-body imaging and cardiac studies that were previously unavailable in our region.” 

Enhancing Precision and Speed in Diagnosis 

Mark Hodges, Director of Imaging, highlights how the VIDA scanner is revolutionizing small bone and joint imaging. “The 3T MRI provides unparalleled detail, allowing physicians to see intricate structures more clearly,” he says. “With enhanced software customization and post-processing functionality, we can adapt scans to individual patients and reduce the time it takes to deliver results.” 

With more than 190,000 imaging studies conducted annually across SGMC Health’s network, these advancements are making a real impact. Faster, safer, and more precise imaging means earlier diagnoses, better treatment options, and improved patient outcomes. 

SGMC Health’s ongoing investments in imaging technology reflect its unwavering commitment to providing the highest level of care to the community. Whether through the convenience of PocketHealth or the cutting-edge capabilities of the 3T MRI scanner, the future of imaging at SGMC Health is brighter than ever. 

For more information on SGMC Health’s imaging services and innovations, visit sgmc.org. 

SGMC Health is on a mission to redefine healthcare in South Georgia, and the past year has been nothing short of transformative. With the addition of new specialty clinics, expansions of existing facilities, and the recruitment of top-tier medical professionals, SGMC Health is setting a new standard for accessible, cutting-edge care. 

A Hub of Innovation: Expanding the Professional Building 

At the heart of this growth is the newly expanded SGMC Health Professional Building, a cornerstone of specialized outpatient care. SGMC Health recently unveiled an 11,500 sq. ft. medical office buildout on its main campus, ushering in two new clinics, SGMC Vascular Surgery and SGMC Cardiac Electrophysiology, while also expanding SGMC Cardiology. This state-of-the-art facility now houses eight medical practices, staffed by 21 physicians and 15 midlevel providers, offering expertise in cardiology, pulmonology, and a range of surgical specialties, from vascular and endocrine surgery to neurosurgery and bariatrics. 

“This expansion represents a significant investment in the health of our community,” says Johnny Ball, SGMC’s Senior Vice President of Regional Hospital Operations. “With these additional resources and providers, we’re better equipped to meet the diverse healthcare needs of our region, ensuring that our patients have access to the best care close to home.” 

The Professional Building has become more than just a medical office space. It’s a hub of collaboration and innovation, where specialists work together to provide seamless, comprehensive care. By integrating advanced diagnostics with specialized treatment under one roof, SGMC Health continues to enhance the patient experience while fostering a culture of medical excellence. 

Welcoming Dr. Ben Hogan: A Homegrown Leader in Family and Sports Medicine 

SGMC Health also welcomed Ben Hogan, MD, a distinguished family and sports medicine physician, to its growing network. A Valdosta native, Dr. Hogan has spent more than two decades caring for patients in his hometown, and his practice, now operating as SGMC Family and Sports Medicine, continues to deliver comprehensive primary and preventive care to patients of all ages. 

With expertise in chronic disease management, preventive wellness, and sports-related injuries, Dr. Hogan has been a trusted physician for Valdosta City Schools and Valdosta State University Athletics since 2001. His deep-rooted commitment to the community and passion for helping athletes perform at their best make him an invaluable addition to the SGMC Health team. 

“Our mission is to help patients achieve optimum well-being and performance through strategic medical assessment, intervention, and education,” says Dr. Hogan. “We focus on building lifelong partnerships with our patients to ensure their health and wellness goals are met with excellence and teamwork.”

Advancing Urological Care with SGMC Urology 

In yet another stride forward, SGMC Health expanded its Physician Network through the acquisition of the Urology Clinic of Valdosta. Now operating as SGMC Urology, this practice brings decades of expertise in urological care to the region. 

Led by board-certified urologists Patrick Parker, DO, and John Losee, MD, SGMC Urology addresses a growing need for urological services in South Georgia and North Florida. The team of physicians and mid-level providers ensure that patients receive comprehensive, expert care for conditions ranging from kidney stones to prostate health. 

“We look forward to continuing to recruit providers in this field and working with the team to create efficiencies that improve care and the experience offered to patients,” says Brenda Alexander, Vice President of the SGMC Physician Network. 

Leading the Way in Regional Healthcare 

With more than 100 employed providers across 12 primary care locations and 26 specialized offices, SGMC Health is the region’s most comprehensive healthcare network, delivering more than 300,000 patient encounters annually. Whether through the expansion of specialized services, recruitment of top physicians, or enhancement of medical facilities, SGMC Health remains steadfast in its mission to provide world-class healthcare close to home. 

For more information about SGMC Health and its services, visit sgmc.org. 

SGMC Health is making significant strides in expanding healthcare access for patients across South Georgia. In 2024, the health system welcomed 14 new physicians across various specialties, strengthening its commitment to providing comprehensive, high-quality care to the community. This strategic expansion ensures that more patients have access to specialized treatment close to home, reducing the need to travel long distances for expert medical services. 

Meeting the Needs of a Growing Community 

The addition of these highly skilled physicians comes as part of SGMC Health’s ongoing efforts to enhance patient care, address physician shortages, and provide timely access to specialized services. The diverse expertise of these new providers spans multiple medical disciplines, including cardiothoracic surgery, pulmonology, urology, vascular surgery, internal medicine, and pediatrics. 

“Our goal is to meet the healthcare needs of South Georgia’s residents by providing expert-level care right here at home,” said Brenda Alexander, Vice President of Physician Network and Chief Human Resources Officer. “By expanding our team, we are ensuring that our patients have access to the best possible care, when and where they need it.” 

SGMC Health marked a significant milestone in its mission to provide accessible and reliable healthcare to the Valdosta community with the opening of its second SGMC Urgent Care center. Located at 520 Griffin Ave, next to Partnership Health Center, the new facility officially offers a much-needed resource for individuals of all ages seeking non-emergency care. 

The addition of this second location was in direct response to the growing demand for urgent care services. With hours from 9:00 AM to 7:45 PM every day, the new center helps address the needs of an expanding population, making it even easier for local residents to access quality care when they need it most. 

Elizabeth Flail, DO, Co-Director of Emergency and Urgent Care at SGMC Health, expressed the importance of this expansion, saying, “Our population continues to grow, and so does the need for urgent care services. By opening additional locations, we’re meeting that need and positively impacting the health and well-being of the area.” 

A Growing Commitment to Accessible Care 

The new Griffin Avenue location joins SGMC Health’s first urgent care center, located on the Smith Northview Campus, which together serve more than 30,000 patients annually. The expansion reflects SGMC Health’s ongoing dedication to ensuring that timely, non-emergency healthcare remains within easy reach for the community. 

SGMC Urgent Care has become a vital part of healthcare for many in Valdosta. As Dr. Flail noted, urgent care is the ideal solution for those who need prompt care but don’t require a trip to the emergency room. "Urgent care is the middle ground between your primary care provider and the emergency room,” she explained. "For minor illnesses or injuries that can’t wait until a regular appointment, SGMC Urgent Care is the perfect option." 

With both urgent care locations now accredited by the Urgent Care Association (UCA), patients can be confident in the quality of care they receive. SGMC Urgent Care became the only facility in the region to achieve this recognition, solidifying its commitment to maintaining high standards for patient safety, clinical practices, and operational efficiency. 

“This accreditation speaks volumes about our dedication to excellence,” said Mandy Anderson, Clinical Practice Leader at SGMC Urgent Care. “It’s a testament to the hard work and care that our team puts into every patient interaction. We are proud to provide a trusted, professional space for non-emergency care.” 

Helping Patients Make Informed Decisions 

SGMC Health also highlighted its "Know, Then Go" program, designed to guide patients in making informed decisions about where to seek care. This helpful tool enables people to easily determine when they should visit their primary care provider, urgent care, or the emergency room. The initiative has helped patients save time, reduce unnecessary costs, and most importantly, ensure they receive the appropriate level of care. 
 
To further improve patient convenience, SGMC Health has introduced a new feature allowing patients to check real-time wait times for both SGMC Urgent Care locations before they arrive. By visiting sgmc.org/urgentcare, patients can choose the location with the shortest wait time, ensuring a more efficient and streamlined experience. 

Dr. Flail emphasized that while urgent care is an excellent option for many, having a primary care provider should still be a priority for overall health management. "Your primary care provider should be your first line of defense for routine health concerns," she said. "If you don’t have one, establishing that relationship is a great step toward a healthier future." 

A Comprehensive Healthcare Network 

SGMC Health’s ability to provide seamless, quality care across various levels—from primary care and urgent care to emergency services—has been instrumental in supporting the region’s health. The continued expansion of urgent care centers demonstrates SGMC’s commitment to meeting the ever-growing needs of the local community. 

The new Griffin Avenue location is a welcome addition to Valdosta’s healthcare landscape, ensuring that more residents have access to high-quality, efficient care when they need it most. 

For more information about healthcare options offered by SGMC Health, visit sgmc.org/knowthengo