State Sen. Freddie Powell Sims applauds Phoebe Level II Trauma verification

ATLANTA — State Sen. Freddie Powell Sims, D–Albany, lauded Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital’s recent verification as a Level II Trauma Center from the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma:

“Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital’s verification as a Level II Trauma Center by the American College of Surgeons is a tremendous achievement for southwest Georgia,” Sims said in a statement. “Multiple counties in Senate District 12 currently lack their own hospital, so the importance of having a nationally verified Level II Trauma Center serving our region cannot be overstated.

“This achievement is the results of decades of planning and strong investment here in rural Georgia.”

Special Photo: Sen. Freddie Powell Sims

Sims said the achievement is indicative of Phoebe Putney Health System’s commitment to bringing top quality health care to the region.

“The ACS recognized numerous strengths within Phoebe’s trauma program, including rapid surgical response times, exceptional pediatric readiness, strong patient safety practices, a demonstrated commitment to performance improvement and comprehensive support services,” Sims said. “Progress of this magnitude requires a shared commitment from medical professionals, community leaders and elected officials on both sides of the aisle. I am proud to have worked with these leaders here at home and with my colleagues at the Capitol to advocate for rural healthcare.

“There is no doubt that a healthier community is a stronger community. When families have confidence in the medical care available close to home, our region is better positioned to attract new opportunities that support long-term economic stability and an increased overall standard of living.”

Sims said the news impacts all of the southwest Georgia region.

“Illnesses and medical emergencies do not discriminate based on political affiliation, and every community, regardless of its size or location, deserves access to dependable medical care,” she said. “I commend the entire Phoebe team and everyone who has contributed to this decades-long effort to enhance health care in southwest Georgia. Phoebe’s recent national verification reinforces why we, as legislators, must continue working across party lines to strengthen rural hospitals throughout our state.”