Phoebe Sumter, Phoebe Worth and the Georgia Hospital Association Celebrate National Rural Health Day

Americus, GA | November 20, 2025 – Phoebe Sumter Medical Center and Phoebe Worth Medical Center and the Georgia Hospital Association (GHA) join communities across the country in celebrating National Rural Health Day (NRHD) on Thursday, Nov. 20, 2025. This annual observance, coordinated by the National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) since 2011, is held on the third Thursday of November to spotlight the remarkable resilience and unique healthcare challenges of rural hospitals and healthcare professionals across the country as they work to provide high-quality healthcare to 61 million rural Americans.

“Rural communities are the heart of Georgia, and ensuring their access to high-quality healthcare is vital to the health of our entire state,” said GHA President and CEO Caylee Noggle. “National Rural Health Day is a great opportunity to thank and support our rural hospitals and healthcare professionals who work tirelessly to provide care to their communities.”

Georgia’s rural hospitals and health systems not only provide critical care but also serve as major employers and economic anchors. According to GHA’s most recent economic impact data, Georgia’s rural hospitals generate $8.6 billion in economic impact statewide and support more than 42,000 jobs, including nearly 21,000 direct hospital jobs. This update is based on 2023 data and uses modeling from IMPLAN®, an independent third party.

“Rural health is more than geography, it’s our calling. At Phoebe Sumter, we’re deeply committed to caring for our neighbors in and around Sumter County, ensuring that access, compassion, and high-quality care are available close to home,” said Carlyle Walton, Phoebe Sumter Medical Center President.

“On this National Rural Health Day, we celebrate the strength of our rural community. At Phoebe Worth, serving our area isn’t just our job, it’s our sacred responsibility. We’re proud to deliver essential care and continue finding new ways to improve wellness right here in Worth County,” said Kim Gilman, Phoebe Worth Medical Center President.

Individuals and businesses can celebrate National Rural Health Day by making a lasting impact close to home. The Georgia HEART Hospital Program allows Georgians to redirect a portion of their state income tax to support rural hospitals, strengthening access to care. Learn more at georgiaheart.org.

For more information about National Rural Health Day and how to get involved, visit PowerOfRural.org.