Statement by the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus on Wellstar Ending Emergency Room Services at Atlanta Medical Center South

ATLANTA (April 14, 2022) | In response to Wellstar ending emergency room services at the only hospital located in South Fulton, Georgia Legislative Black Caucus Chairwoman Senator Tonya Anderson (D – Lithonia) issues the following statement:

“The Georgia Legislative Black Caucus is deeply concerned by the actions of Wellstar to discontinue providing the residents of South Fulton access to emergency care at their Atlanta Medical Center South location,” said Sen. Anderson. “The healthcare of the surrounding communities, many consisting of Black, low income, senior, or very young residents, will undoubtedly suffer considering the additional travel required to receive emergency care.

To my knowledge, Wellstar never approached the Caucus to discuss options where the state could assist as appropriate and necessary. This is another example of why healthcare needs to be a statewide priority, especially with a highly contagious virus ever present.

Access to healthcare is a right every resident of our state should enjoy regardless of where you live or who you are.”

Established in 1975, the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus is a 501(c)3 non-profit, nonpartisan organization comprising of 68 Georgia House and Senate members. For more information about the Georgia Legislative Black Caucus, please visit www.gablackcaucus.org or write to media@gablackcaucus.org.

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For Immediate Release:

April 14, 2022

Sophie Stepakoff, Communications Associate

sophie.stepakoff@senate.ga.gov

404.656.0028