MOULTRIE, GA —The award was presented during GHA’s annual Patient Safety and Quality Awards program, which honors Georgia hospitals and health systems for innovative efforts to reduce medical errors, enhance patient safety, and improve quality of care statewide.
Colquitt Regional’s Health Equity Food Resources Program was developed to address food insecurity, a key social determinant of health that can significantly impact recovery and long-term health outcomes. Through the program, eligible patients receive non-perishable, diabetic-friendly food items at discharge, along with educational materials that include healthy recipes, information on community resources, follow-up appointment details, and patient satisfaction surveys.
“Health outcomes are often shaped by factors outside the walls of the hospital,” said Colquitt Regional President and CEO Jim Matney. “By addressing food insecurity as part of the discharge process, our team is helping patients continue their healing at home. This recognition reflects our commitment to caring for the whole patient and improving health equity in our community.”
Since the program’s launch, Colquitt Regional has seen a notable increase in patient satisfaction survey participation, providing valuable feedback that supports ongoing quality improvement efforts.
“Working to enhance healthcare equity is an important step in ensuring healthcare access and accessibility for everyone,” said Georgia Hospital Association President and CEO Caylee Noggle. “We are pleased to honor Colquitt Regional Health System for their advancements in these areas and applaud their efforts to improve access to care for their community.”
Colquitt Regional Health System was also presented with a Circle of Excellence award, an honor given to hospitals and health systems that have demonstrated a sustained commitment to quality and patient safety as evidenced by not only winning a patient safety award this year, but by earning three or more GHA Patient Safety and Quality Awards within the previous five years.
“The Circle of Excellence Award is a testament to the consistency and dedication of our physicians, nurses, and staff,” said John Griffin, Chairman of the Colquitt County Hospital Authority. “Their ongoing focus on quality, safety, and patient-centered care continues to strengthen healthcare for our region.”
The Georgia Hospital Association’s Patient Safety and Quality Awards are presented annually to healthcare organizations across the state for achievement in reducing the risk of medical errors and improving patient safety and medical outcomes.
