Starr Regional Medical Center is proud to join the American Hospital Association and healthcare organizations around the country in celebrating National Hospital Week, which is observed May 10-15. Each May, National Hospital Week provides an opportunity to pause and honor the millions of healthcare professionals who dedicate their lives to taking care of people in their greatest times of need, and to recognize the positive difference hospitals and healthcare organizations make in the communities they serve.

“As our community continues the fight against COVID-19, the pivotal role our healthcare workers play in the well-being of society is clearer than ever,” said John McLain, chief executive officer (CEO) of Starr Regional Medical Center. “Their tireless efforts on the front lines of this disease and their commitment to quality care and patient safety year-round are critical to our mission of Making Communities Healthier. We proudly honor these heroes during National Hospital Week and commend their inspiring efforts to serve others.”

Community members are encouraged to leave a special note of thanks for hospital employees at www.thankahealthcarehero.com.

The hospital plays an important role in supporting the health and vitality of McMinn County all year long. From welcoming 49 affiliated providers and expanding services, to investing more than $2 million in new clinical technology and facility improvements, Starr Regional Medical Center is committed to meeting the evolving health needs of the community and enhancing access to high quality care close to home.

As one of the region’s economic leaders, the organization employs nearly 700 staff and contributed more than $7,482,959 in taxes to the local and state economies last year. Additionally, it is proud to sponsor a number of local community organizations and non-profits, including American Cancer Society, Athens Area Council for the Arts, Etowah Rotary Club, Friendly Fellows, Good Faith Clinic, Grace & Mercy Ministries, McMinn County Education Foundation, McMinn County Schools, Nourish One Child and United Way of McMinn & Meigs Counties. Ensuring that everyone has access to the high-quality and compassionate care they need is a top priority for the organization and fundamental to its mission. In 2019 alone, Starr Regional provided more than $47.6 million of charity and other uncompensated care, regardless of patients’ ability to pay.

“McMinn County is a wonderful place to call home, and we are privileged to have a significant impact on its health and economic well-being,” said Durant Tullock, chair of Starr Regional Medical Center’s board of trustees. “As we celebrate National Hospital Week amid unprecedented challenges this year and begin to look to the future, we are aware that healthcare – like other aspects of life – might look a little different. What will not change, though, is our mission and our commitment to this community. We will continue to put the health and well-being of our neighbors first, ensuring safe places of care and a healthier community for us all.”