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.

New Obstetrics and Gynecology Providers Join Upson OB/GYN Clinic

THOMASTON, Ga., May 5, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) welcomes Dr. Ashley M. Williams-Hernández, Dr. Chinenye Adimora-Okolie and ...

THOMASTON, Ga., May 5, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) welcomes Dr. Ashley M. Williams-Hernández, Dr. Chinenye Adimora-Okolie and Certified Nurse Midwife (CNM) and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner (WHNP) Lindsey Sundeen to the growing URMC healthcare system. Dr. Williams-Hernández, Dr. Adimora-Okolie and Sundeen, CNM, WHNP, will bring compassionate care and expertise in women’s health to Upson OB/GYN’s patients. Sundeen, CNM, WHNP, will begin practicing at Upson OB/GYN spring 2026. Dr. Williams-Hernández and Dr. Adimora-Okolie will join the clinic July 6, 2026. “At Upson Regional, caring for our neighbors is at the heart of everything we do, and we are excited to welcome this outstanding group of providers to our community,” said Dan Owens, Chief Executive Officer of Upson Regional Medical Center. “Dr. Williams-Hernández, Dr. Adimora-Okolie and Lindsey Sundeen bring exceptional experience, compassion and a deep commitment to women’s health. Together, they strengthen our ability to provide high-quality, accessible OB/GYN services close to home and to care for generations of women and families across our region, while continuing our mission of providing excellent care rooted in compassion for all.” With two offices conveniently located in Thomaston and Barnesville, Upson OB/GYN offers comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic care for women in Upson, Lamar and Pike County, as well as surrounding areas. Upson OB/GYN is committed to providing its patients with excellent care rooted in compassion for all. To schedule an appointment, please call (706) 647-9627.   <strong>About Dr. Ashley M. Williams-Hernández</strong> Dr. Ashley Williams-Hernández is a Georgia native, raised in Savannah, Ga. She graduated Cum Laude from the University of South Carolina with her Doctorate of Medicine and completed her residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of New Mexico. Dr. Williams-Hernández practices all aspects of general obstetrical and gynecological care. She has a special interest in minimally invasive procedures through robotic surgery and adolescent gynecology. She stated she is honored to serve the women of Upson County and the surrounding communities and to be part of their many milestones including puberty, sexuality, pregnancy, birth and menopause. “I chose to join URMC because of its strong commitment to patient-centered care and community health,” said Dr. Williams-Hernández. “I’m especially looking forward to becoming part of the Upson OB/GYN team and building meaningful relationships with patients while helping expand women’s healthcare access in the community.”   <strong>About Dr. Chinenye Adimora-Okolie</strong> Dr. Chinenye Adimora-Okolie earned her medical degree from Boston University School of Medicine. She was commissioned into the United States Army as a Second Lieutenant and completed a four-year military residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Md. After completing her residency, she served as a military staff OB/GYN physician stationed at Bassett Army Community Hospital in Ft. Wainwright, Alaska. There, she advanced to the rank of Major and held the positions of Chief of Ambulatory OB/GYN and Chief of Obstetrics. “I chose to work at URMC because it is a hidden oasis in a healthcare desert, offering services to patients who would otherwise lack such access to care,” she stated. “What I'm most looking forward to about Upson OB/GYN is the better work-life balance it affords, allowing me to continue being a better doctor, wife and mom. I'm also looking forward to getting to know this new community of patients and taking great care of them." Dr. Adimora-Okolie said that she enjoys all aspects of OB/GYN, including infertility and robotic surgery. In particular, she enjoys empowering and teaching women about their bodies, developing strong relationships with her patients and welcoming new lives into the world. She shared that she is excited to serve and start forming new relationships with her patients.   <strong>About Lindsey Sundeen, CNM, WHNP</strong> Sundeen is a board-Certified Nurse Midwife and Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner, and she shared that she has a passion for supporting women and their families throughout pregnancy, labor, birth and the postpartum period. She gained her Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) from Frontier Nursing University based out of Eastern Kentucky and completed a Post-Master's Certificate in Women's Health. Although a native of Macon, Ga., Sundeen has resided much of her life in the Monroe County area and has served Middle Georgia families for over 10 years. One of her commitments is to bring awareness about perinatal mood disorders and the effect women’s mental health status has on overall health and wellness. “I am excited to join Upson Regional Medical Center as I see the compassion and desire Dr. Moga [and the Upson OB/GYN team] have to serve [the] community with the addition of midwifery services,” said Sundeen.

City of Hope Cancer Center Atlanta and Upson Regional Medical Center to Launch Cancer Care Alliance

Agreement paves way to bring advanced oncology options to rural Georgia communities ATLANTA, Feb. 23, 2026 – City of Hope® ...

<em>Agreement paves way to bring advanced oncology options to rural Georgia communities</em> ATLANTA, Feb. 23, 2026 – City of Hope® Cancer Center Atlanta, part of one of the nation’s largest organizations for advanced cancer research and treatment, and Upson Regional Medical Center in Thomaston, Georgia, announced plans for a partnership to offer coordinated, advanced oncology care to residents of West Central Georgia. Signed with a letter of intent (LOI), the two hospitals have laid the groundwork for future clinical affiliation to leverage the respective strengths and resources from each institution to deliver high-value, comprehensive and coordinated cancer care to patients. “Recognizing residents in rural areas often face significant challenges in accessing cancer care, our partnership with Upson Regional Medical Center is a meaningful step forward in our mission to put patients first and expand cancer care access across the Southeast,” said Jonathan Watkins, president of City of Hope Cancer Center Atlanta. “This collaboration will allow us to bring our world-class cancer expertise and research to West Central Georgia, ensuring patients have access to the best possible treatment options close to home.” This agreement ensures that most cancer services will be delivered locally at Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) by City of Hope’s highly trained, board-certified physicians, allowing patients in the Thomaston region to access comprehensive cancer care, including treatments, chemotherapy, and telemedicine, within their community. Through this collaboration, residents can receive the majority of their cancer care close to home. For specialty care needs beyond the URMC capacity, patients have the opportunity to access care at City of Hope Cancer Center Atlanta, located in Newnan, Georgia. City of Hope Cancer Center provides in-person consultations with highly trained, board-certified physicians and access advanced medical treatment options, including innovative therapies from City of Hope’s leading-edge clinical research program. “This partnership with City of Hope Cancer Center Atlanta marks a milestone for Upson Regional Medical Center and the communities we serve. By joining forces, we are bringing world-class cancer expertise and innovative treatments directly to our communities, empowering our patients with access to comprehensive oncology care—without leaving their hometowns. This affiliation further solidifies our mission to provide excellent care rooted in compassion for all, and is a testament to our dedication to improving health outcomes for families across West Central Georgia,” said Dan Owens, CEO of Upson Regional Medical Center. The affiliation with Upson Regional Medical Center would be City of Hope Cancer Center Atlanta’s third rural partnership in the state, joining partnerships with Miller County Hospital in Colquitt, Georgia, and Dorminy Medical Center in Fitzgerald, Georgia. To learn more about City of Hope Atlanta’s comprehensive cancer services, visit City of Hope’s website or call (855) 939-HOPE.   <strong>About City of Hope</strong> City of Hope's mission is to make hope a reality for all touched by cancer and diabetes. Founded in 1913, City of Hope has grown into one of the largest and most advanced cancer research and treatment organizations in the United States, and one of the leading research centers for diabetes and other life-threatening illnesses. City of Hope research has been the basis for numerous breakthrough cancer medicines, as well as human synthetic insulin and monoclonal antibodies. With an independent, National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center that is ranked among the nation’s top cancer centers by U.S. News & World Report at its core, City of Hope’s uniquely integrated model spans cancer care, research and development, academics and training, and a broad philanthropy program that powers its work. City of Hope’s growing national system includes its Los Angeles campus, Orange County, California, campus, a network of clinical care locations across Southern California, and cancer treatment centers and outpatient facilities in the Atlanta, Chicago, and Phoenix areas. City of Hope’s affiliated group of organizations includes Translational Genomics Research Institute and AccessHope™. For more information about City of Hope, follow us on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn.   <strong>About Upson Regional Medical Center</strong> Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) is a 115‑bed, DNV‑accredited community hospital serving Upson County and the surrounding region of middle Georgia. For 75 years, URMC has delivered comprehensive, high‑quality healthcare close to home, offering a full range of services including Emergency Care, General Cardiology, Interventional Cardiology, Primary Care, Orthopedics, OB/GYN, ENT, Neurology, Hospital Medicine, Urology, Ophthalmology, Nephrology, Inpatient Geriatric Psychiatry, General Surgery, Imaging, and Inpatient Services. The hospital features advanced capabilities such as an Interventional Cardiology Cath Lab, robotic surgery, and a helipad for rapid patient transport, and holds DNV Stroke and Chest Pain Accreditations. Guided by its mission—delivering excellent care rooted in compassion for all—URMC continues to invest in the people, technology, and services that support the health and well-being of the communities it serves. Learn more at urmc.org.   <strong>Media Contacts:</strong> City of Hope Cancer Center Atlanta: Mimi Cooper, mimi@cookerly.com, (404) 816-2037 Upson Regional Medical Center: Chelsea Peterson, chelsea.peterson@urmc.org, (706) 601-3251

Upson Regional Medical Center Announces Partnership With Core Clinical Partners to Deliver Emergency and Hospital Medicine Services in Georgia

THOMASTON, Ga., Feb. 19, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) announces a new partnership with Core Clinical Partners to ...

THOMASTON, Ga., Feb. 19, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) announces a new partnership with Core Clinical Partners to provide Emergency Medicine and Hospital Medicine management and operational support. This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to high-quality, patient-centered care for the Thomaston community and surrounding areas. URMC is a 115-bed, non-profit community hospital that has served West Central Georgia since 1951. A DNV-accredited facility, URMC offers comprehensive services including emergency care, cardiology, orthopedics, women’s health and specialized rehabilitation programs. Through this partnership, Core brings physician-led expertise in Emergency and Hospital Medicine focused on clinical excellence, operational consistency and high-impact care delivery. This collaboration is designed to support coordinated, compassionate care across the continuum while meeting the evolving needs of patients and clinicians. Core will officially begin Emergency and Hospital Medicine services on April 16, 2026. “Core Clinical Partners is well known for its relationship-driven approach and consistent performance in community hospitals like ours, making them a trusted partner as we continue to deliver excellent care rooted in compassion for all,” said Daniel Owens, URMC’s chief executive officer. Boykin Robinson, MD, MBA, CEO of Core, echoed this enthusiasm, sharing, “Upson Regional Medical Center has a strong legacy of serving its community with compassion and excellence. We are proud to partner with their team to make a meaningful difference for patients and families.” Core Clinical Partners will be actively recruiting an experienced Medical Director, in addition to Emergency Medicine physicians and Advanced Practice Providers (APPs), to join the team at URMC. Clinicians interested in learning more should contact Kevin Yerovsek at kyerovsek@coreclinicalpartners.com.   <strong>About Core Clinical Partners</strong> Core Clinical Partners is a physician-founded and physician-led practice management company founded on the principles of partnership, transparency and clinical alignment, overseeing 40 Emergency Medicine and Hospital Medicine programs in 10 states that serve more than a million patients annually. In a market where outsourced groups have become vendors to their hospitals and staffing agencies to their clinicians, Core does things differently by developing unique models at each site that align with the needs of both the facility and the clinicians. By combining the capabilities of a national group with the kind of individualized, on-the-ground service usually only found in smaller groups, Core guides hospitals and health systems on their journey toward top-tier metrics and outstanding patient experience. For more information, visit www.coreclinicalpartners.com.   <strong>About Upson Regional Medical Center</strong> URMC is a not-for-profit, full-service, DNV-accredited healthcare organization located in Thomaston, Georgia. For 75 years, URMC has proudly served a multi-county area of middle Georgia, continually expanding its facilities, technology and expertise to better meet the needs of its patients. URMC’s physicians, providers and staff are committed to delivering exceptional, safe and compassionate care to every patient and family. At Upson Regional, staff believe healthcare should be personal, accessible and rooted in trust — because your health matters, and so does how URMC cares for you. To learn more, visit urmc.org.   <strong>Media Contact:</strong> Director of Growth and Strategy Chelsea Peterson, BSN, RN Upson Regional Medical Center chelsea.peterson@urmc.org (706) 647-8111, ext. 1242

Upson Regional Medical Center Honors Andrea Geiger with Sunflower Award

THOMASTON, Ga., Feb. 16, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) congratulates Andrea Geiger, an exceptional medical assistant at the ...

THOMASTON, Ga., Feb. 16, 2026 — Upson Regional Medical Center (URMC) congratulates Andrea Geiger, an exceptional medical assistant at the Upson Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) Clinic, 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 families. Recipients must exemplify the five pillars of the award: integrity, commitment, advocation, respect and excellence. Andrea received over a dozen nominations, all of which praised her friendliness, positivity and helpfulness. Her nominators shared: “[She] built good rapport and made me feel comfortable as a first-time patient here [Upson ENT]. She listened to my concerns and gave next steps. Superb experience.” “Andrea was very kind, compassionate and professional from the time I walked into the office until I left. She kept me informed throughout the visit.” “I have been to the office several times, and Andrea has always been welcoming and receptive to conversations or issues I was having. [I] never felt rushed or ‘less than’ when speaking with her. She explained the process clearly and made me feel comfortable.”   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 Andrea’s commitment to providing excellent care rooted in compassion for all!