Residents of Union City and the greater South Fulton area have a reason to smile as Grady Health System announces it will be planting its roots with a new freestanding emergency department. A much-needed addition, the facility is a response to a gap in local healthcare services, particularly felt after Wellstar shuttered both Atlanta Medical Center South and Atlanta Medical Center. According to an announcement by the city, the construction is slated to begin in the fall of 2024, with the doors expected to swing open by 2026.
Union City Mayor Vince R. Williams expressed delight about the project, stating in a city report, "The City Council and I are THRILLED about the upcoming construction of Grady Health System’s new facility in Union City." Long travel times to reach emergency care have been a persistent headache, but this emergency department promises to ease locals' woes by providing healthcare services much closer to home. Enthusiasm seems to cut across the board, as both the private sector and local government have flexed their collaborative muscles to make it happen.
The facility won't be just any run-of-the-mill emergency room. It's expected to cover 20,000 square feet with 16 bays for adult and pediatric emergencies, boasting top-of-the-line imaging and laboratory facilities, including a pharmacy. The existence of a dedicated ambulance entrance and on-site helipad, according to Grady's president and CEO John Haupert, are proud reflections of the growing medical needs in metro Atlanta. "The freestanding emergency department will allow us to serve this community by bringing exceptional care to patients right where they live," Haupert shared in a press release.
Currently a trek involving up to 40 minutes, the journey to the nearest emergency medical services will shrink considerably, much to the relief of residents. Robb Pitts, Chairman of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners, highlighted the health inequity that has plagued the region in a statement, "Everyone in Fulton County deserves access to health care, and no one should die early because of their zip code." The new facility stands as a beacon of commitment to change this narrative.
The venture, which is an encore of efforts from Grady Health System, Fulton County, and federal stakeholders, is not just a brick-and-mortar establishment but a significant leap towards enhancing community well-being. It is funded through a synergetic patchwork of Fulton County contributions and federal dollars aimed to close the gaps in healthcare access.
