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As we look forward to cele brating National Rural Health Day on Nov. 19, we cannot ignore how the healthcare landscape has changed since last year. Who could have imagined we would be in the midst of a global pandemic, fighting a deadly virus that has changed the way we live? The reality of our new normal has taught us many things, but one thing I have learned for certain is that now, more than ever, it is vitally important that we acknowledge the necessity, the importance, and the power of rural hospitals.

Alabama’s rural hospita ls are the backbone of our healthcare system, showi ng their power through communi ty, care, and the COVl D crisis. We‘ ve kept our doors open and continued to care for Escambia County throughout this crisis and will continue to be here in the months and years ahead.

Atmore Community Hospital provides care for our families, neighbors, and friends close to home. Nearly two million patients were treated in one of Alabama’s rural hospitals la st year. Over the course of the COVID-19 Pandemic, we have tested over 3,000 patients of which 621 have tested positive. During a pandemic, just like any emergency, every day counts, and, without rural hospitals, many Alabamians would lose access to essential frontline services. Our team of 230 dedicated employees continues to be here, ready to care, treating patients locally when it matters most. We understand that our hospital plays a vital role as a cornerstone of this com munity, and we assure you that we take this role very seriously.

Atmore Community Hospital takes pride in providing access to quality healthcare, and we are committed to delivering it to our citizens for years to come.

Our hospital is thankful to be a part of the Atmore community and is honored to have been able to care for you close to home throughout this crisis. We also want to thank the community for its tremendous support during this time. Your support of this hospital is critical all of the tin1e, but has been especially meaning ful during the pandemic. While we all hope for a better outlook for 2021, no matter what, we will be here to care for you.

Sincerely,

Suzannf McGill

Interim Administrator and Director of Nursing