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Rural healthcare in critical condition, but improving 

Georgians take it for granted that they will always have access to quality health care. However, hospitals, many in smaller communities, have been forced to cut back on services or close down completely in recent years because of skyrocketing insurance premiums. The fact that one in three OB/GYNs in our state has stopped delivering babies for fear of being sued should alarm all Georgians. Women are losing access to essential prenatal care, especially in rural areas.

The situation is all the more critical with the explosive population growth Georgia has experienced in the last twenty years. With more than 350 people moving to Georgia every day, the state urgently needs to create an environment that will attract and retain highly qualified medical personnel. Elected officials and community leaders are encouraging medical students in Macon and Augusta to set up practice in underserved parts of the state after graduation.

A major roadblock to this important recruitment effort was a lack of civil justice reform. Georgia’s legal system was so out of balance that doctors were moving out of state or retiring rather than being a constant target for unfounded lawsuits. This looming threat to the quality of life of every Georgian would disproportionately affect rural areas.

The good news for all Georgians is that civil justice reform overwhelmingly passed the House and Senate and was the first bill signed into law during the 2005 legislative session. The law became effective immediately upon the Governor’s signature. The Georgia Chamber strongly believes that the law is the best way to ensure that all Georgians have access to healthcare.

Today’s hospitals are not only life saving facilities; they are the economic life-blood of many communities throughout Georgia. A 2003 report from the Georgia Hospital Association highlights the tremendous economic impact hospitals have on a local level and on the state economy. They employ more than 130,000 medical personnel and have a payroll of more than $3 billion annually.

Rural hospitals significantly improve the quality of life of the people of this state. Along with providing excellent medical care to local residents, they are responsible for generating tax revenue and creating jobs. The Georgia Chamber will continue to champion the cause of hospitals across the state to make sure they remain open to everyone.

— George Israel