New Year ?. New Start for Davie County Hospital

January 2, 2002

A new chapter in the history of Davie County Hospital began today as North Carolina Baptist Hospitals, Inc. (NCBH) assumed management of the hospital. "We are very excited about the opportunity to assist Davie County Hospital as it prepares for the future," said G. Douglas Atkinson, Vice President of Networks at NCBH. "Our initial steps will include continuation of appropriate services at the hospital, including the operation of the hospital as an urgent care center, while conducting a comprehensive assessment of needs within the County."

"Our goal is to develop a strategic plan for Davie County Hospital that will satisfy the healthcare needs of the residents of Davie County in a fiscally-responsible way," said Ralph Holthouser, Director of Hospital Affiliations at NCBH, who will serve as president of Davie County Hospital during the interim management period. Lynn T. Doss will serve as Administrator. A 7-month period of evaluation is anticipated to thoroughly explore feasible options for operating the hospital. The details of the strategic plan will be largely dependent on input provided by the community, business leaders and area physicians regarding what level of services are needed and will be actively supported by the community. "Local community medical staff support will be welcomed during this period of transition and beyond," said Melissa Seagle, M.D., chief of staff and hospital board member. Dan Barrett, Chairman of the Davie County Board of Commissioners, strongly supports the new management team. "We welcome the opportunity to affiliate with one of the most respected healthcare providers in the country, and will work diligently with NCBH to ensure local access to health care for the citizens of Davie County."

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Contact: Jonnie Rohrer, 336-716-6972 or Mark Wright, 336-716-3382.

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