From David Early, Floyd Cherokee Medical Hospital Administrator

As we celebrate National Rural Health Day today (on Thursday, November 19th) we cannot ignore how the health care landscape has changed in the last year. Who could’ve imagined we would face global pandemic, fighting a deadly virus that has changed the way we live? This new normal has taught us a lot, but the thing I’ve been reminded of more than anything else is how vitally important it is for us to acknowledge the necessity, the significance and the power of rural hospitals.

I believe rural hospitals are the backbone of Alabama’s health care system, and that belief has only been reinforced during the COVID-19 crisis.  Through planning and resourcefulness, we’ve been able to keep our doors open and continue to care for Cherokee county. We will continue to do the same in the weeks, months and years ahead. 

Floyd Cherokee Medical Center provides excellent care for our families, neighbors and friends right here at home. Nearly two million patients were treated in one of Alabama’s rural hospitals last year. Our professional caregivers have worked tirelessly over the last eight months, testing almost 600 individuals for COVID-19 and identifying 63 of those as COVID positive.

Pandemic or not, every day counts when it comes to your health. Without rural hospitals, many Alabamians would lose access to essential frontline services. Our team of 143 dedicated employees is here, ready to offer compassionate care to patients locally, when and where it matters most. We understand that Floyd Cherokee Medical Center is a cornerstone of this community. You have my assurance that we take that role very seriously. We take pride in providing access to quality healthcare. It’s a commitment, and one will stand behind for years to come.

This is a season of thanksgiving. We’re thankful to be a part of the Cherokee community and are honored to have been able to care for you close to home throughout this crisis. We’re also thankful for a community that has continuously offered its tremendous support during this time.  Your support of Floyd Cherokee Medical Center is humbling and inspirational all the time, but it has been especially meaningful during the last eight months. While we all hope for a better outlook in 2021, we will be here to care for you no matter what it brings.

Thank you. 

David T. Early, Administrator, Floyd Cherokee Medical Center