In Cordele, the Crisp Regional Hospital Emergency Department recently achieved a significant milestone. On December 7th, a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to recognize the hospital's commitment to enhancing pediatric emergency care in Crisp County. This partnership with the Kids Alliance for Better Care (KidsABC) has been transformative, bringing new resources and expertise to the community.
Transformative Impact on Pediatric Care
Georgia rural hospitals face unique challenges in providing pediatric care. Before joining KidsABC, Crisp Regional Hospital struggled to ensure that its youngest patients had access to specialized resources and expertise. However, with the support of KidsABC, the hospital has acquired child-friendly equipment, completed pediatric-specific emergency care staff training, and implemented the latest protocols and policies.For example, new pediatric-specific equipment such as wheelchairs and medical imaging aprons has prepared the hospital better than ever. Staff have undergone advanced training, including hands-on sessions at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta's SIMS lab, which has significantly boosted their confidence and expertise.One remarkable case involved a child in diabetic ketoacidosis during a severe storm when transport was impossible. Using the KidsABC protocol and with guidance from the attending pediatrician, the team was able to stabilize the child locally, avoiding a transfer and ensuring critical care in the community.Milestones and Celebrations
Crisp Regional commemorated its KidsABC participation with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Cordele-Crisp Chamber of Commerce. Hospital, Children's, Mercer University School of Medicine (MUSM), and Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center (GRHIC) representatives attended the event. Community members were also invited to a Cookies with Santa event.This milestone is not only a testament to the hard work of the ED staff but also a significant step forward in providing quality pediatric care in rural Georgia.Partnership with Mercer University School of Medicine
Mercer University's School of Medicine was established in 1982 to educate physicians for rural and medically underserved areas. More than 60 percent of graduates practice in Georgia, and 80 percent are in rural or underserved areas. The School's problem-based medical education program provides early patient care experiences, fostering clinical problem-solving skills.The School opened additional campuses in Savannah in 2008 and Columbus in 2021, and a clinical campus in Valdosta in 2024. Students participate in core clinical clerkships at various teaching hospitals. The School also offers master's and Ph.D. degrees in related fields.Georgia Rural Health Innovation Center
In 2018, Georgia lawmakers established the Rural Health Innovation Center to address health care challenges in rural communities. Mercer University School of Medicine was awarded the grant in 2019 and established the center on its Macon campus. The center serves as a critical resource, offering research, collaboration, and training opportunities to improve access and effectiveness of health care.Children's Healthcare of Atlanta
As the only freestanding pediatric healthcare system in Georgia, Children's Healthcare of Atlanta is a trusted leader in caring for kids. With more than 60 pediatric specialties and programs, top healthcare professionals, and leading research and technology, it manages over 1.1 million patient visits annually.Consistently ranked among the top children's hospitals, Children's has impacted the lives of kids for over 100 years with the support of the community.Crisp Regional Hospital's Comprehensive Services
Crisp Regional Health Services oversees Crisp Regional Hospital, a level 3 trauma center with a comprehensive network of health and social service facilities. It includes a home health program, nursing home, retirement home, hospice, home care program, dialysis facility, and rural health clinics.More than 50 physicians practice at the hospital, providing hospital and outpatient care in various specialties. Over the past decade, the hospital has expanded to meet the demand for new services while maintaining its commitment to patient-centered care.READ MORE