U.S. Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith recognized the critical work of local hospital employees this week as she toured Magee General Hospital and Simpson General Hospital. During the visit, the Senator spoke with numerous physicians and staff and listened as they addressed issues the hospitals are facing.
Gregg Gibbes, CEO of Covington County Hospital and Magee and Simpson General Hospitals, says, “Senator Hyde-Smith has been, and continues to be, an advocate for rural healthcare, which has been proven time and time again and most recently through her work to establish the CDC Office of Rural Health.”
The establishment of this office within the CDC stems from a bipartisan effort to bring attention to the critical need for healthcare services in rural communities around the country.
“Improving the financial security of rural hospitals is key to improving the rural-urban disparities in health outcomes,” wrote Hyde-Smith in an op-ed for the Washington Times.
“It was an honor and a privilege to have Senator Hyde-Smith take the time to meet with us and see what we are doing with our hospitals here in Simpson County.” Senator Hyde-Smith was shown the capabilities of each hospital as she viewed occupational and physical therapy areas, laboratories, emergency departments, and inpatient rooms. Gibbes discussed several issues with Senator Hyde-Smith regarding the planned growth of both facilities.
“There’s plenty of pressure on small, rural healthcare facilities these days, but I’m pleased with the good work at these community hospitals,” said Senator Hyde-Smith about the visit.
