CovingtonCares 21 The response from local residents has been overwhelming. From the very first day, the hospital has been met with tremendous support. That support has not only validated the vision behind the facility but has also inspired the staff to work even harder. “The community support at SCEH is very humbling,” said Gregg Gibbes, CEO of Covington County Hospital. “We have exceeded the projections for year one largely due to the support and trust the community has placed in our hospital.” The hospital was designed to address a pressing need – bringing high-quality emergency services closer to home for Smith County residents. Before the facility opened, many patients were forced to travel long distances in critical situations, losing valuable time. Now, care is available right in their own backyard. The more than 2,000 visits in the first year underscore just how vital this access has been. While the hospital’s role as a provider of emergency care is at the forefront, stories of achievement and excellence have also emerged from within its walls. This year, two emergency department nurses were recognized with Trauma Pins from the Mississippi Trauma Foundation, a prestigious acknowledgment of their skills and dedication in lifesaving situations. Their recognition highlights not only individual excellence but also the culture of professionalism and compassion that defines the hospital’s staff. The achievements of the first year are a testament to the dedication of the physicians, nurses, and support staff who keep the hospital running day and night. Many of them are from the surrounding area, giving them a personal connection to the patients they serve. That sense of connection is one of the hospital’s greatest strength – neighbors caring for neighbors, friends helping friends. As the hospital looks toward the future, its leaders are eager to build on this foundation of success. Plans are underway to expand outpatient services, enhance trauma care capabilities, and strengthen partnerships with local clinics and emergency responders. The longterm goal is not only to respond to emergencies but also to become a trusted partner in prevention, wellness, and overall community health. The story of Smith County Emergency Hospital is still in its early chapters, but its impact is already undeniable. In just one year, it has cared for thousands, earned statewide recognition for its staff, and provided peace of mind to an entire county. Most importantly, it has shown what can happen when neighboring communities come together to support something bigger than themselves. Smith County Emergency Hospital is more than just a building – it’s a promise fulfilled, and a beacon of care for the future.
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