Upson Regional Medical Center Welcomes Project SEARCH Class of 2026-2027 Interns

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THOMASTON, Ga., Sept. 17, 2026 — Project SEARCH Class of 2026-2027 began their internship program at Upson Regional Medical Center ...

THOMASTON, Ga., Sept. 17, 2026 — Project SEARCH Class of 2026-2027 began their internship program at Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) this fall. Hosted at URMC in partnership with Thomaston-Upson Schools, Project SEARCH is a unique school-to-work transition program that offers both students and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through a series of internships in various departments throughout the hospital. The 2026-2027 Project SEARCH interns are Javontae Hall, Audey Norris, Tirpp Pollard and Jarvis Willis. They are currently learning on-the-job skills in Human Resources (HR), Auxiliary, Wound Healing Center, and The Wellness Center and Nourishments. These participants will complete three internship rotations within URMC for employment readiness and career exploration. URMC is a proud supporter of Project SEARCH and Thomaston-Upson Schools because of the shared vision of equipping students and young adults for success. This program is another way the hospital is fulfilling its purpose to the community: Excellent Care Rooted in Compassion for All. The skills learned while interning at URMC are transferable to various businesses and industries within Thomaston and surrounding communities. Graduates have found employment as cashiers, utility aids, file clerks, cart attendants, baggers and stockers, and bakery workers. “Project SEARCH is a valuable resource to not only give the interns real life work skills but also as a recruitment source for URMC,” said URMC HR Director Laura Stokes. “The interns have proven to be eager to work, quick to learn and a strong part of the URMC team. I am excited to see the progress of the current interns through the year.” Project SEARCH is an innovative, total immersion program that defies traditional expectations and empowers young adults to secure competitive employment. This national program focuses on serving young adults who can benefit from personalized support during an intensive academic year of career development and internship experience. "Project SEARCH is more than a program,” stated Project SEARCH Instructor Wanda Thompson of Thomaston-Upson Schools. “It’s a pathway to confidence, purpose and meaningful employment for the incredible young adults we serve. Every day, our interns show us what’s possible when opportunity, support and determination come together. Project SEARCH is changing lives and building brighter futures." Originally started as a single program at Cincinnati Children's Hospital in 1996, Project SEARCH has grown into a national, comprehensive work-study program. Through a unique combination of classroom instruction covering employability curriculum, hands-on training in the workplace and individualized skill building, Project SEARCH has given its young adult interns job readiness. In the decades since its inception, Project SEARCH has helped over 55,000 young people across the country develop the skills and confidence they need for success in the job force. To take part in Project SEARCH, participants much be 17 years old or older. For students currently enrolled in Thomaston-Upson Schools, they must have an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and be recommended by their teacher or school counselor. Young adults interested in the program must have had an IEP while they were enrolled in Thomaston-Upson Schools. All prospective interns must complete a skills assessment to be considered for the program. Questions about Project SEARCH can be directed to URMC’s HR Department at humanresourcesdepartment@urmc.org.

Upson County Hospital, Inc. Appoints State Representative Beth Camp to Board of Directors

THOMASTON, Ga., Sept. 16, 2026 — Upson County Hospital, Inc. has appointed State Representative Beth Camp to its Board of ...

THOMASTON, Ga., Sept. 16, 2026 — Upson County Hospital, Inc. has appointed State Representative Beth Camp to its Board of Directors. A longtime advocate for rural Georgia, Camp brings extensive experience in public service, business, emergency medical services, education, government and community leadership to the board. Camp represents Georgia House District 135 and is an eighth-generation Georgian. Her understanding of rural communities, public policy and emergency response will support the board’s work to strengthen access to high-quality healthcare throughout the region. “We are honored to welcome State Representative Beth Camp to the Upson County Hospital, Inc. Board of Directors,” said Dan Owens, Chief Executive Officer of Upson Regional Medical Center. “Beth brings a valuable combination of public policy experience, business leadership, emergency medical knowledge, and a deep commitment to rural Georgia. Her perspective will be an important asset as we plan for the future and advance our mission of providing excellent care rooted in compassion for all.” Camp’s career spans business, education, local government, public safety and state service. She grew up in Dublin, Ga., attended Georgia Military College and Clayton State University, and earned a master’s degree in communication studies from the University of Alabama. She is also a licensed Emergency Medical Technician and real estate professional. In 2024, she was selected as a Henry Toll Fellow, a national leadership development program for state government officials. Before her election to the Georgia General Assembly, Camp served as a real estate broker, local school board member and county government professional in public safety roles. In the Georgia House of Representatives, she serves as Chair of the House Judiciary Juvenile Committee and as a member of the House Ways and Means, Energy, and Agriculture and Consumer Affairs committees. Her legislative work has included child welfare, government accountability, tax relief, public safety and issues affecting rural communities. “On behalf of the Board of Directors, we are pleased to welcome Beth to this important leadership role,” said Bill Hightower, Chairman of the Upson County Hospital, Inc. Board of Directors. “Her record of public service, sound judgment and commitment to rural communities aligns with the board’s responsibility to provide thoughtful oversight and responsible stewardship. We look forward to the perspective she will bring as we work to ensure excellent healthcare remains available close to home.” “I am honored to join the Upson County Hospital, Inc. Board of Directors and to support the important work of Upson Regional Medical Center,” Camp said. “Strong local healthcare is essential to the well-being and vitality of rural communities. I look forward to working with my fellow board members and the hospital’s leadership team to support the patients, families, employees, and communities the organization serves.” Camp’s community service includes roles with Georgia Military College and the CASA Board of Directors for the Griffin Judicial Circuit. She also holds leadership positions with organizations involved in state and national public policy, including the National Conference of State Legislatures Executive Committee and the Council of State Governments Southern Office Executive Committee, and she serves as a State Director for Women in Government. Camp and her husband live near Concord, where they operate a family farm and remain actively involved in the communities they serve.

Upson Regional Medical Center Honors Stephen Singleton, BSN, With The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses

THOMASTON, Ga., Sept. 15, 2026 — Stephen Singleton, BSN, is being honored with The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses by ...

THOMASTON, Ga., Sept. 15, 2026 — Stephen Singleton, BSN, is being honored with The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses by Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC). This national award is part of the DAISY Foundation’s mission to recognize the compassionate care nurses provide to patients and their families every day. Singleton works night shift in URMC’s Emergency Department. His nominator shared: "After his 12-hour shift, he loaded a nursing home patient's wheelchair and took it to Barnesville. He lives in Pike [County]. Stephen is a model employee who truly treats others with compassion. He sets a great example for others." The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Foundation is a not-for-profit organization that was established in memory of J. Patrick Barnes by members of his family. The foundation’s DAISY Award was inspired by the care Patrick and his family received from nurses while he was hospitalized with an auto-immune disease. Nurses may be nominated by patients, families, and colleagues. The award recipient is chosen by a committee at URMC to receive The DAISY Award, which includes a certificate, a pin and a meaningful sculpture called “A Healer’s Touch,” hand-carved by artists of the Shona Tribe in Zimbabwe. The DAISY Award is one of three recognition programs at URMC: DAISY Award – Celebrates nurses for extraordinary, compassionate care LILY Award – Honors non-clinical staff for exceptional service Sunflower Award – Recognizes patient care technicians and allied health professionals for their outstanding contributions Patients and their families can nominate URMC employees for these awards through online or paper nominations, ensuring that acts of kindness and excellence are celebrated across the organization. Online nomination forms can be accessed at urmc.org. URMC’s administrative officials offer their congratulations to Singleton on this well-deserved honor and share their appreciation of his commitment to excellent care rooted in compassion for all.

The Peoples Bank of Georgia Provides a Fifty-Thousand-Dollar Donation to Upson Regional Medical Center Through the Georgia HEART Hospital Program

THOMASTON, Ga., Sept. 14, 2026 — The Peoples Bank of Georgia’s Thomaston location generously donated $50,000 to Upson Regional Medical ...

THOMASTON, Ga., Sept. 14, 2026 — The Peoples Bank of Georgia’s Thomaston location generously donated $50,000 to Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) in a display of its commitment to investing in healthcare in the community it proudly serves. Made possible through the Georgia HEART Hospital Program, this donation will support URMC’s ongoing transformational projects to enrich patients’ access to comprehensive care. The Peoples Bank of Georgia City President Nathan Gaskin, Loan Officer Ben James and Loan Officer Levi Long presented the check to URMC Chief Executive Officer Dan Owens and Chief Financial Officer Jason Gassett. “We are deeply grateful to The Peoples Bank of Georgia for this generous investment in the health of our community,” said Dan Owens, Chief Executive Officer of Upson Regional Medical Center. “Their support through the Georgia HEART Program will help advance transformational projects that expand access to high-quality, compassionate care close to home. This gift reflects the power of local organizations working together to build a healthier future for Thomaston, Upson County and the communities we serve—and helps us continue delivering Excellent Care Rooted in Compassion for All.” Georgia HEART allows businesses and individuals to redirect their state income taxes to eligible rural hospitals. Through this program, businesses like The Peoples Bank of Georgia receive state income tax credits while partnering with local healthcare systems to strengthen patient services close to home. The Peoples Bank of Georgia’s donation through Georgia HEART ensures that URMC has the ongoing resources necessary to continue its purpose: Excellent Care Rooted in Compassion for All. “The Peoples Bank of Georgia is a proud local bank, and donating to URMC was a way to show our commitment to serving our community,” shares Loan Officer Ben James. “URMC is a pillar of Thomaston/Upson County and surrounding counties, and they provide a phenomenal healthcare service to our entire region. We are proud to support and partner with URMC in any way possible, and we are thankful that we can do so through the Georgia HEART Hospital Program. We look forward to many years of continued partnership.” Businesses and individuals interested in supporting URMC through Georgia HEART can learn more and access the 2026 Tax Credit Form at georgiaheart.org.

Upson Regional Medical Center Celebrates New ICU and Blackstock Family Women’s Center with Grand Opening Ceremony

THOMASTON, Ga., Sept. 2, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) celebrated a historic milestone on Sept. 2, 2026, with ...

THOMASTON, Ga., Sept. 2, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) celebrated a historic milestone on Sept. 2, 2026, with the grand opening of its new Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and Blackstock Family Women's Center — two transformational projects representing a $40 million investment in the future of healthcare for Upson County and surrounding communities. Approximately 300 community members, healthcare professionals, donors, elected officials, project partners and hospital leaders gathered to commemorate the occasion. The celebration served not only as the dedication of two new healthcare facilities, but also as a testament to what can be accomplished when a community, its healthcare providers, donors, employees and local leaders unite around a shared vision for the future. During the ceremony, Chief Executive Officer Dan Owens welcomed guests to the grand opening and spoke about the impact these new units will have on patient care. Board Chairman William (Bill) Hightower, IV gave remarks on the importance of investment in healthcare and the hospital’s commitment to its community. Nic Moga, M.D., provided insight into the significance the Women’s Center will have on female patients within Upson County and surrounding areas. A blessing was given by Rev. John Halley, senior pastor of Thomaston First Methodist Church. Board member Scott Blackstock led the dedication of the two new units. Project partners Batson-Cook Construction, 2WR architects, major subcontractors, TEAM UP and Georgia HEART Hospital Program donors were recognized during the ceremony. The ceremony was followed by a ribbon cutting with physicians, board members, project team partners and public officials. Guests then had the opportunity to tour the Women’s Center, led by Labor and Delivery Department staff. The opening of the new facilities marks one of the most significant capital investments in URMC's history and reinforces the organization's commitment to expanding access to advanced healthcare services close to home. Designed to enhance patient comfort, safety and clinical outcomes, the new ICU and Women's Center position URMC to meet the growing healthcare needs of the region for decades to come. "Today represents far more than the opening of two new hospital units — it represents a promise to the families of our region," said Dan Owens, Chief Executive Officer of Upson Regional Medical Center. "The new Intensive Care Unit and Blackstock Family Women's Center reflect our commitment to ensuring that patients can receive exceptional, advanced care close to home. Every mother welcoming a new baby, every critically ill patient requiring intensive care, and every family seeking comfort during life's most important moments will benefit from this investment. We are profoundly grateful to the Blackstock family, our donors, our employees, our Board of Directors and our community partners whose generosity and belief in our mission made this vision a reality." As the sole provider of obstetrical, neonatal and intensive care services within its immediate service area, URMC plays a critical role in ensuring access to specialized healthcare for thousands of residents across west-central Georgia. To strengthen that mission, the organization invested $40 million in the construction of a new Women's Center and Intensive Care Unit, including nearly 40,000 square feet of new construction, extensive renovations and facility enhancements designed to support state-of-the-art care with the latest standards in patient-centered care. The new ICU opened to patients in May 2026, and the Women’s Center is expected to open to patients mid-September 2026. The 12-bed ICU is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, enabling patients to receive the advanced care they need. This technology includes critical care beds, patient lifts and all-in-one monitors for personalized patient monitoring. The Women’s Center includes 6 labor and delivery rooms, 14 postpartum rooms, 2 triage rooms, 1 Cesarean operating room and 2 post anesthesia care unit (PACU) bays for post-operation recovery of OB/GYN procedures. A larger nursery, complete with an isolation nursery housed within the main facility, has also been constructed, allowing for attentive care of URMC’s smallest patients. Construction on the ICU and Women’s Center broke ground on February 7, 2025. Both projects were funded in part through Georgia HEART, and the Women’s Center received additional funding through TEAM UP donors and the Blackstock family. Scott Blackstock is a local businessman and Thomaston native who has served on the URMC Board of Directors for many years. The Women's Center was named in honor of the Blackstock family in recognition of their longstanding commitment to Upson Regional Medical Center and the health of the community. “When I first came on the board, I was awed by the responsible stewardship exhibited by our past community leaders,” Blackstock stated. “They guided this hospital to an enviable position among Georgia's rural medical centers. The hospital is such a vital part of our community's success. We all owe a debt of gratitude to those who came before us and who guided us with such careful wisdom. Our family is specifically proud to support the much-needed new women's addition. It is foremost dedicated to all the strong and godly women of Upson County and to their steadfast faith in God's healing hands." The project also reflects the remarkable generosity of URMC employees. Through TEAM UP — URMC's employee giving program — more than 200 staff members have contributed over $135,000 toward the Women's Center since 2017. Their support underscores the deep commitment employees have in enhancing healthcare services for the patients and families they serve every day. Funding of these projects was also made possible through Georgia HEART, which allows businesses and individuals to redirect their state income taxes to eligible rural hospitals in Georgia. By providing this avenue for qualifying hospitals to secure additional funding, Georgia HEART aims to improve Georgians’ access to comprehensive healthcare in rural communities. Taxpayers who participate in Georgia HEART receive state income tax credits, thereby making financial support of their local hospitals at no net cost to them. Businesses and individuals interested in contributing to URMC through Georgia HEART can learn more and apply at georgiaheart.org. Beyond expanding clinical capabilities, the new ICU and Women's Center represent an investment in the health, economic vitality and future of the region. By providing advanced care close to home, URMC helps families avoid traveling long distances for critical services while strengthening access to high-quality healthcare in rural Georgia. The new ICU and Blackstock Family Women's Center reflect URMC's continued commitment to delivering excellent care rooted in compassion for all. Together, these facilities will enhance the patient experience, expand access to specialized services, and help ensure that future generations have access to exceptional healthcare close to home. For more information about URMC and its services, visit <strong>urmc.org</strong>. Upson Regional Medical Center Board of Directors, Left-to-right: Rev. Greg Smith, Vice Chairman Jim Edwards, Scott Blackstock, Chairman William (Bill) Hightower, IV, CEO Dan Owens, Dr. Mark Andrews, Rep. Beth Camp and Dr. Ben Williams Batson-Cook Construction Representatives and URMC Executive Team, Left-to-Right: Senior Vice President and General Manager Darin Appleton (Batson-Cook), Project Superintendent Jonathan Ledford (Batson-Cook), Project Executive Marty Graves (Batson-Cook), Project Superintendent Jordan McKinney (Batson-Cook), Chief Information Officer Erik Bowe (URMC), Project Manager Lynwood Dees (Batson-Cook), Chief Executive Officer Dan Owens (URMC), Physician Practice Administrator Tammy Moore (URMC), Chief Nursing Officer Penny Nole, RN, MSN (URMC), Director of Human Resources Laura Stokes, Chief Financial Officer Jason Gassett (URMC), Senior Executive Assistant Marsha White (URMC) and Director of Growth and Strategy Chelsea Peterson, RN (URMC)  

Upson Regional Medical Center Honors Bailee Massey with the Sunflower Award

THOMASTON, Ga., Aug. 14, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) Administration congratulates Bailee Massey, an exceptional occupational therapist in ...

THOMASTON, Ga., Aug. 14, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) Administration congratulates Bailee Massey, an exceptional occupational therapist in the Physical Therapy Department, on receiving the Sunflower Award. The Sunflower Award recognizes and celebrates the extraordinary work of patient care team members, including technicians, social workers, counselors and other clinical support staff, who go above and beyond in caring for patients and their families. One of Bailee’s patients shared: "I feel like she discovered that I had a significant problem by listening and [providing] expertise... She further assisted me and taught me and encouraged me when I was ready to give up. She did plenty of things to assist me that were not in her job description, I'm sure. She was positive, uplifting, obviously very caring, a wonderful listener, very understanding demeanor, and above all did a great job helping me and arming me with the education and tools to continue with therapy at home. Hats off to Bailee!" Recipients of the Sunflower Award should demonstrate the following principles: Integrity – Maintains trust and confidence Commitment – Serves patients and families by honoring URMC’s mission Advocacy – Focuses on serving the best interest of the patient Respect – Provides dignity and respect to everyone Excellence – Strives for the highest quality of care The Sunflower Award is one of three recognition programs at URMC: DAISY Award – Celebrates nurses for extraordinary, compassionate care LILY Award – Honors non-clinical staff for exceptional service Sunflower Award – Recognizes patient care technicians and allied health professionals for their outstanding contributions Patients and their families can nominate URMC employees for these awards through online or paper nominations, ensuring that acts of kindness and excellence are celebrated across the organization. Online nomination forms can be accessed at urmc.org. URMC appreciates Bailee’s commitment to providing excellent care rooted in compassion for all.

United Bank Contributes $100,000 to URMC Through Georgia HEART Program

THOMASTON, Ga., July 13, 2026 — United Bank presented a $100,000 donation to Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) through the ...

THOMASTON, Ga., July 13, 2026 — United Bank presented a $100,000 donation to Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) through the 2026 Georgia HEART Hospital Program, reinforcing United Bank's ongoing commitment to expanding access to quality healthcare in the communities it serves. The contribution will help URMC continue providing essential medical services to residents throughout Upson County and the surrounding area. The donation represents United Bank's fifth consecutive year of participation in the Georgia HEART Hospital Program, which allows Georgia taxpayers to direct state income tax dollars to qualified rural hospitals. URMC CEO Dan Owens and CFO Jason Gassett accepted the donation on the hospital’s behalf. “We are deeply grateful to United Bank for its generous support of Upson Regional Medical Center through the Georgia HEART Hospital Program,” said Dan Owens, CEO of Upson Regional Medical Center. “This donation is an investment in the health and well-being of the families we serve and will help us continue strengthening our commitment to excellent care rooted in compassion for all.” "Strong local hospitals are essential to the health and vitality of every community we serve," Pete Garrett, president of United Bank in Thomaston, said. "We're proud to support Upson Regional Medical Center through the Georgia HEART Hospital Program for the fifth consecutive year. This partnership allows us to invest directly in the availability of high-quality healthcare close to home while helping ensure the hospital has the resources it needs to continue caring for families throughout Upson County for years to come." The Georgia HEART Hospital Program provides an opportunity for Georgia businesses and individuals to receive a state income tax credit while making contributions that strengthen rural healthcare across the state. For more information about Georgia HEART Hospital Program, visit georgiaheart.org.

West Central Georgia Bank Donates Forty Thousand Dollars to Upson Regional Medical Center Through the Georgia HEART Hospital Program

THOMASTON, Ga., May 12, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) is the beneficiary of West Central Georgia Bank’s generous ...

THOMASTON, Ga., May 12, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) is the beneficiary of West Central Georgia Bank’s generous $40,000 donation, which was made possible through the Georgia HEART Hospital Program. West Central Georgia Bank President and CEO Eddie Rogers, EVP and CLO Kyle Stonecipher and CFO Matt Adams presented the check to URMC CEO Dan Owens and CFO Jason Gassett. “We are deeply grateful to West Central Georgia Bank for its generous support of Upson Regional Medical Center through the Georgia HEART Hospital Program,” said Dan Owens, CEO of Upson Regional Medical Center. “This donation is an investment in the health and well-being of the families we serve and will help us continue strengthening access to quality care close to home.” Georgia HEART allows businesses, such as West Central Georgia Bank, and individuals to redirect their state income taxes to eligible rural hospitals in Georgia. By providing this avenue for qualifying hospitals to secure additional funding, Georgia HEART aims to improve Georgians’ access to comprehensive healthcare in rural communities. “Thomaston, Upson County and the surrounding communities are fortunate to have access to quality healthcare at Upson Regional Medical Center,” said West Central Georgia Bank EVP and CLO Kyle Stonecipher. “We are proud to be able to support Upson Regional Medical Center and its employees by participating in the Georgia HEART Hospital Program. We feel like through this program, small businesses like West Central Georgia Bank can participate by helping provide funds that make a difference in healthcare in our community.” West Central Georgia Bank’s donation to URMC will provide support to vital projects, such as the expansion of the Mother/Baby Unit. This project consists of new construction, expansion and renovation to its nursery, as well as improvements to the layout of the facility to adhere to modern standards of the high specialized obstetrical and neonatal services offered to families. The Mother/Baby Unit is expected to be completed by fall of 2026. To qualify for Georgia HEART, hospitals must meet specific requirements as set forth by state legislation. Among these requirements are the hospital’s tax-exempt status, population size of the county where the hospital is located, the acceptance of Medicare and Medicaid, and minimum annual provision of indigent or uncompensated care. Taxpayers who participate in Georgia HEART receive state income tax credits, thereby making financial support of their local hospitals at no net cost to them. Businesses and individuals interested in contributing to URMC through Georgia HEART can learn more and apply at georgiaheart.org.

Convenient Care at Your Fingertips: Upson Regional Medical Center Launches Online Patient Self-Scheduling Platform

THOMASTON, Ga., May 19, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) is partnering with Luma Health to enhance patients’ care ...

THOMASTON, Ga., May 19, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) is partnering with Luma Health to enhance patients’ care by offering the ability to self-schedule and manage their appointments, all from the convenience of their phone, tablet or computer — even after business hours. Luma Health is a patient engagement platform designed to assist patients in their healthcare experience. From personalized updates to appointment reminders, Luma Health’s automated email and text messaging keeps patients informed of appointments, and annual screenings. “By empowering our patients to schedule appointments with their providers 24/7, 365 [days a year], we are ensuring that access to healthcare is always within reach, regardless of the time or day,” shares URMC Information Technology Director Erik Bowe. “Luma's technology transforms our scheduling into a dynamic, patient-centered bridge that honors both the urgency and the importance of every individual's health journey." “At Upson Regional Medical Center, our goal is always to make healthcare easier to access, more personal, and more responsive to the needs of our community,” said Dan Owens, Chief Executive Officer of URMC. “By introducing online self‑scheduling through Luma Health, we’re giving patients more control and flexibility — allowing them to manage their care on their own time, whether that’s during a lunch break or after business hours. This is another important step in bringing high‑quality, convenient care even closer to home for the families we serve.” Patients can take charge of their healthcare by managing their appointments and communication preferences, whether through email, text message or phone call. URMC also offers its patients the following features: Scheduling: Finding and booking an appointment is simple and convenient with online scheduling, available on URMC’s website, urmc.org. Appointment Reminders: With appointment reminders sent via text, email or phone call, patients can stay on top of their office visits. Appointments can also be confirmed or rescheduled through the message, ensuring that patients get the care they need when they need it. Waitlist: If a patient needs an earlier appointment than what is available, he or she can enroll in a waitlist to be notified when a spot opens. Once notified via text or email, the patient can select the appointment straight from the message. Broadcast Messaging: Patients stay informed with important updates, such as holiday hours and unexpected clinic closures, sent straight to their phone. Enhanced Feedback: After an appointment, patients receive a feedback request, enabling them to voice their experience in real-time. Online Intake: Patients can start the check-in process prior to their appointment, meaning less time spent in the waiting room and more time being treated. A secure link is sent via text message or email with all the necessary paperwork — medical history, contact information and insurance — as well as a place to upload their ID.   URMC remains committed to providing excellent care rooted in compassion for all by offering convenient, personalized treatment to patients when they need it most through this new platform. Visit urmc.org to sign up and schedule an appointment.

Upson Regional Medical Center Earns a Second ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade from The Leapfrog Group

THOMASTON, Ga., May 18, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) maintains its “A” Hospital Safety Grade for Spring 2026 ...

THOMASTON, Ga., May 18, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) maintains its “A” Hospital Safety Grade for Spring 2026 from The Leapfrog Group, an independent, national nonprofit organization focused on patient safety. URMC earned an “A” score in Fall 2025, making this the first time the healthcare system has earned straight “A’s” in the last two grading cycles, according to hospital officials. Leapfrog assigns an “A,” “B,” “C,” “D” or “F” grade to general hospitals nationwide based on their overall performance in preventing errors, accidents, injuries and infections. “Receiving a second ‘A’ grade is a testament of the hard work and outstanding care that our team provides to each patient,” shares Upson Regional Chief Executive Officer Dan Owens. “Leapfrog uses 27 evidence-based measures to grade hospitals on patient quality and safety, which makes it a balanced and rigorous reflection of the overall quality of care being provided at hospitals across the country.” Upson Regional is one of only 20 hospitals in Georgia to have earned an “A” safety grade for Spring 2026. This high score places Upson Regional in the top 25% of all 79 general hospitals in the state for its rigorous standards of patient quality and safety. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade stands as the only hospital ratings program focused solely on preventable medical errors, infections and injuries. This program is peer-reviewed, fully transparent and free to the public. Grades are updated twice annually, in the fall and spring. “Leapfrog contains so many standards that you have to meet, not only things like mortality and readmissions, but they’re also looking at nurse-staffing ratios, hand hygiene and complication rates,” says Upson Regional Chief Quality Officer Suzanne Streetman. “The ‘A’ safety grade gives us a better reflection on where we are as a hospital and how high quality we are.” Upson Regional’s commitment to providing “excellent care rooted in compassion for all” is reflected in the high marks the hospital received in its effective practices to prevent errors, provide quality nursing and bedside care for patients and responsiveness of hospital staff to patients’ needs. “The impact this ‘A’ safety grade has on our patients is reaffirmation that they get the best care possible at Upson Regional,” states Upson Regional Chief Nursing Officer Penny Nole. “The community will see evidence that Upson Regional can be their hospital of choice.” To learn more about URMC’s commitment to patient safety, visit urmc.org.