MACON, GA – The Georgia HEART Hospital Program is proud to announce the successful completion of its inaugural Georgia HEART Conference, held on April 22, 2025, at Mercer University School of Medicine in Macon. This milestone event convened healthcare officials, hospital leaders, and state policymakers for a day of collaboration, reflection, and strategic planning – all centered on one mission: sustaining and strengthening rural healthcare across the state through the Georgia HEART program.
Throughout the day, attendees heard presentations and engaged in discussions focused on expanding the reach and effectiveness of the HEART program. The Georgia HEART team shared key updates on legislation, impact data, and marketing strategies, inspiring fresh thinking about how to sustain and scale support for rural hospitals.
The event featured two panel discussions. The first, “Georgia Gives with HEART: Investing in the Future of Rural Healthcare,” brought together Senator Billy Hickman, Caylee Noggle (President and CEO of the Georgia Hospital Association), and Charles Tarbutton (President and Director of B-H Transfer Co. and Georgia HEART Board Member).
“The energy and ideas in the room were positive and productive, and make us excited about the $100 million cap on this program for 2025,” said Lisa Kelly, Senior Advisor at Georgia HEART and panel moderator. “As Senator Billy Hickman remarked, this is the only tax credit program in the state that is saving lives.”
One of the most meaningful sessions of the day was the panel discussion, “Maximizing the HEART Program’s Impact,” where hospital leaders shared success stories and lessons learned. Their real-world perspectives brought the data to life, demonstrating how contributions through the HEART program are directly improving healthcare outcomes in underserved communities. Panelists included:
- Chris Efaw, Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Southwell/Tift Regional Medical Center
- Gina McDonald, Foundation Project Manager, Colquitt Regional Medical Center
- Damien Scott, CEO, Emanuel Medical Center
- Carlyle Walton, CEO, Phoebe Sumter Medical Center and Senior Vice President, Phoebe Putney Health System
“The conference served as a powerful reminder of the essential role rural hospitals play – not only in delivering critical healthcare services, but in strengthening local economies and sustaining the vitality of Georgia’s communities,” said Ben Saylor, President and CEO of Georgia HEART and panel moderator. “Hearing directly from hospital leaders reinforced the profound impact these institutions have on the lives of Georgians every day, and underscored why support through the HEART program is so vital.”
As the event concluded, the message was one of optimism, unity, and renewed commitment. The Georgia HEART Hospital Program continues to thrive, powered by the shared belief that every Georgian deserves access to quality healthcare, regardless of where they live. With continued collaboration and community support, the program is poised to make an even greater impact in the years ahead.
For more information about Georgia HEART or to learn how to participate, visit www.georgiaheart.org.