Phoebe Foundation Invests $2.3 Million to Enhance Surgical Family Waiting Experience at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital

Reception area at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, with organization signage and people near the surgical family waiting hallway.Albany, GA | September 4, 2026 – The Phoebe Foundation has invested $2.3 million to support renovations to SurgiCare and the Surgical Family Waiting Area at Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, helping create a more comfortable and welcoming environment for families waiting while a loved one undergoes surgery.

For families, the time spent waiting during a surgical procedure can be filled with anxiety. These renovations are designed to make that experience a little easier by creating spaces that feel warm, inviting and supportive.

People sit and talk in the Surgical Family Waiting area with brown sofas, round tables, and wood-patterned flooring.“Whether someone is coming in for a minor procedure or facing a more complex surgery, we understand there can be uncertainty for the patient and for the people who love them,” said Parker Douglas, Director of the Phoebe Foundation. “Through the generosity of our donors, we have the opportunity to create spaces where families feel comfortable, supported and cared for while they wait.”

The renovations will focus on enhancing the areas where families gather before, during and after a loved one’s procedure, creating an environment that provides comfort and reassurance when it is needed most.

“The SurgiCare and Surgical Family Waiting areas are often among the first places our patients and families experience when they come to us for surgery, so we want it to feel warm, welcoming and reassuring,” said Amy Atchison, RN-CNOR, Director of Surgical Services at Phoebe. “For families, waiting while someone they love is in surgery can be incredibly stressful. Creating a more comfortable space can help ease some of that anxiety and provide a better experience during a difficult time.”

People relax and chat in stylish lounge chairs in a well-lit surgical family waiting area at Putney Memorial Hospital.The investment reflects the Phoebe Foundation’s commitment to supporting the entire patient and family experience. Made possible through the generosity of donors, projects like this help ensure families feel cared for not only at the bedside, but in the moments spent waiting, hoping and supporting the people they love.

Work on the project is scheduled to begin on Tuesday, September 8 and will likely take several months to finish. It will be completed in phases to minimize disruptions, but there will be times when detours will be required and seating capacity will be reduced.

If you are interested in donating to the Phoebe Foundation to support projects like this one that benefit patients at Phoebe, visit www.supportphoebe.org.