The development of graduate medical education (GME) programs for medical school graduates in the year 2016 received a unanimous positive vote on Tuesday, June 26 by the Athens Regional Health System and Athens Regional Medical Center Board of Directors.

Athens Regional Health System President and CEO, Jamey Thaw, stated in a press release, “This is a significant moment in the history of our organization and one that will undoubtedly improve the health of our community and our state. Our Boards voted with confidence that we should embark on a program that will be transformational for us and for our state. We need more physicians throughout our region and state.  Statistics indicate that medical residents tend to stay in the area of their residency training.”

Dr. James Moore, ARMC Chief Medical Officer states, "Our medical staff is excited about the opportunity to share their knowledge and experience with the next generation of physicians. They understand the influence a GME program will have on this hospital, community and state and feel a great sense of pride and responsibility in being a vital part of this effort. However a truly exciting thing about becoming a teaching facility is the ability to become role models for the next generation of physicians. Attending physicians become mentors. That is a daunting responsibility, too… it keeps everyone on their toes and engaged at every level of care,”

Thaw explained that ARMC may pay over eight million prior to the first student beginning a residency. A call to request state funding for the program was approved by the ARMC board members.

“It is a big investment, not a cost, but an investment in the future of our community, our organization and the future of healthcare in our region. It’s an investment in the future well-being of every single person who walks through our doors. Our commitment to the communities we serve has always been that Athens Regional will do whatever it takes to provide the highest level of care possible. This GME program reinforces that commitment,” said Thaw.