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Unveiling of the Awaited Northeast Georgia Medical Center Lumpkin
Earlier this week, Dahlonega’s citizens marked the start of a fresh chapter as the highly anticipated Northeast Georgia Medical Center Lumpkin was inaugurated. Anyone requiring emergency services in the region is now directed to the new site, situated on GA-400, just south of the intersection at Highway 60.
Transition from Chestatee Regional to Lumpkin Medical Center
This newly opened 66,000-square foot health center is a replacement for the dated health facility known as Chestatee Regional, which was situated on a hill in the town. A much-attended grand opening ceremony was held on Saturday, where Carol Burrell, President and CEO of Northeast Georgia Health System, gave a welcome speech. She expressed her thrill on the new facility’s completion.
Addressing and Acknowledging the Community
In her address, Burrell thanked various elected representatives, including State Sen. Steve Gooch and State Rep. Will Wade, for their attendance. She explained how NGHS has served the community for nearly seven decades, after launching the Gainesville hospital. Bought in 2013, the new property represented NGHS’s aspiration to integrate the organization with the Lumpkin community. However, the COVID pandemic and the temporary closure and subsequent re-opening of the old facility, brought its share of disruptions to the timeline.
New Healthcare Services and Infrastructure
During the event, Kevin Matson, Northeast Georgia Health System’s Vice President of Regional Hospitals, took the stage. He outlined an array of crucial services that the new facility would deliver to its patients. According to a recent statement from NGHS, such services will include round-the-clock emergency care, inpatient care, laboratory and pharmacy support, on-site imaging, orthopedic surgery, and advanced surgery.
Appreciation and Expectations
Sen. Gooch, whilst inspecting the new facility, conveyed his gratitude, acknowledging that having the Northeast Georgia Health System locally was indeed a blessing. He disclosed that NGHS has committed $70 million into this facility, which is expected to usher in substantial economic benefits to the community. Besides, Gooch also commended first responders for their vital role in the healthcare ecosystem.
Focus on Rural Hospitals
In the high-ceiling foyer of the new hospital, Gooch emphasized on the hospital’s vital role in the community. He recalled his own attempts to save the Chestatee Regional Hospital when it closed down, and credited key leaders like the then-governor, the then-UNG president, UNG Senior Vice President for Business and Finance, and many others for their roles in re-opening it.
Despite the joyful opening of this new facility, Gooch acknowledged challenges still facing many rural hospitals in nearby areas.
Anticipation for the Future
Gooch referred to the region’s current phase as a potential game-changer and underlined the importance of quality healthcare in attracting new residents. He also warned against fast-paced, uncontrolled growth that could alter Lumpkin County’s character, referencing North Atlanta’s example. This new Northeast Georgia Medical Center Lumpkin location brings the hospital chain’s county tally to five, with other campuses located in Braselton, Winder, Demorest, and Gainesville.
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