Our Opinions
Hospitals must collaborate

A few years back a study suggested that a centrally located regional medical center was a good idea for Clarke County. The study suggested a location along Highway 43 in Grove Hill.

Clarke County is fortunate in one respect to have three hospitals. Some counties, such as neighboring Choctaw which is working on the problem, have none. But three is a problem in one respect too because it dilutes the market and the services that can be offered.

Grove Hill Memorial Hospital is a publicly owned facility (by the Town of Grove Hill) and offers a wide range of services.

The Thomasville hospital changed its name in recent years to the more ambitious Southwest Alabama Medical Center and says it is pursuing construction of a new $30 million plus facility. City leaders there promote the idea but it is still a long way from becoming reality.

Jackson Medical Center has been hampered by an aged and outdated facility. Last year Jackson city and hospital leaders met with their Grove Hill counterparts to discuss a joint hospital effort. The idea of a new facility some where between Grove Hill and Jackson was talked. Nothing ever came of the discussion.

Now, with the announcement of a new $4 billion steel mill to be built 35 miles south of Jackson, city and hospital leaders there are talking of a new hospital for that community. The City Council has hired a consultant to look into the matter.

Community conditions are constantly changing, they do not stand still. We can't blame either Jackson or Thomasville for wanting to pursue new facilities because of the growth they see in and around their communities. We still think the one large regional facility idea of a few years ago is a good one but it doesn't look like it is going to happen.

Perhaps three hospitals within a 30-mile or so span can survive and do well. It would be good for the public and the entire region if it can work. However, we would think that for three facilities to be successful each would have to find one or two niches and work to perfect services within those areas. That will require collaboration- more collaboration than was exhibited on the regional hospital concept.

For the good of the hospitals, the public and the region we pray for such cooperation.

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