Baptist Hospital of Worth County, Sylvester
"He who says he abides in him ought to walk in the same way in which he walked"
(John 2:6)

 

In 1998, Baptist Hospital opened a rehabilitation service and upgraded its technology by purchasing a CT scan, ultrasound and state-of-the-art operating room equipment. Outpatient services, such as x-ray and cardiopulmonary-respiratory therapy, also were added. Ten new beds were purchased, and the hospital installed a med gas system, a chiller system and new air handlers. In May 1998, a beautiful new hospital reception area began the first phase of the hospital’s planned renovation that will include many areas of the hospital. Later that year, the intensive care unit was reopened and Baptist Hospital partnered with Worth County to take over management of the county’s Emergency Medical Services, which include EMS technicians and a fleet of ambulances. The hospital currently has 200 staff members and last year served 1,100 inpatients, 4,600 outpatients and 7,700 patients in the emergency room.

In 1999, Baptist Hospital of Worth County began renovating the obstetrics and gynecology department and will provide new living quarters for the staff of its ambulance service. New construction has started on other areas of the hospital including the dining room. Soon, the hospital will add 20 more beds. The hospital also is planning to add state-of-the-art technology to its women’s services center and open a family life center. Evaluation is under way to locate a third Baptist Life Flight helicopter at the hospital.

The benefits of Baptist Hospital to Worth County go beyond health care. In 1998, the hospital had a $39 million economic impact on the community. The hospital’s first and second quarter performances indicate that figure will increase to more than $50 million in 1999.

Baptist Hospital of Worth County partnered 

with local government to

management of the county's Emergency

Medical Services, which include EMS

technicians and a fleet of ambulances.


Baptist Hospital has taken its health care ministry into the community. In partnership with Worth County School System, full-time school nurses are stationed at elementary and middle schools, and there are plans for nurses in area high schools. Job fairs and health fairs to screen for blood pressure, glucose, anxiety, cholesterol and depression are held several times a year in schools, colleges and libraries. The hospital also sponsors community activities such as the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.

Even though Baptist Hospital of Worth County has grown tremendously in the past three years, a neighborly small town approach to health care still prevails. "We consider our jobs done if you can walk through the door and feel the difference in how our staff acts and reacts," said Hayes. "We’re a Christian-based hospital and that should be evident in everything we do."