AAPHC opens new women’s healthcare center in Albany

Cutting the purple ribbon

ALBANY, Ga. – Albany Area Primary Health Care cut the ribbon early this afternoon on a new women’s health center in the Good Life City.

CBS 44’s Brian Roche tells us why a facility like this is needed in rural Georgia.

Today marks a major step for women’s health in southwest Georgia as Albany Area Primary Health Care has officially cut the ribbon on a new women’s health center.

The Elois Edge Center is named after long time midwife, Elois herself.

And, after helping to deliver babies for years, she’s honored to help guide women in southwest Georgia safely through their pregnancies.

“It’s like God is helping us, someone’s listening. Because, yes, it’s a tough area, and therefore the care providers are limited. But, here in the Albany area, they really mean it when they say ‘taking care of community,” said Elois Edge, midwife.

Southwest Georgia has been referred to by members of Albany Area Primary Health Care as an “OB desert” as specialized medical resources are continuing to shrink in rural areas…especially for women’s healthcare.

“The maternal health desert is real across the United States, so we’re not unique to the situation. But, we do have an opportunity to be a part of the solution. And, so, what we want to make sure of is that we have a safety net for women here in southwest Georgia,” said Shelly Spires, CEO – Albany Area Primary Health Care

“Opening this office allows more women to have access to care in this area. Right now, we have three clinics so that allows them to get in for same day appointments so they can start prenatal care early. As we know, that is one of the biggest factors in preventing poor maternal outcomes,” said Dr. Sheena Favors, OB/GYN, Albany Area Primary Health Care.

But, in a time where women’s healthcare is becoming much more crucial, Albany Area Primary Health Care doesn’t want anyone in southwest Georgia to have to drive hundreds of miles just for an initial diagnosis.

“You don’t want to have to wait, or have to look around to try and find another provider. So, with multiple clinics and our organization, we have the opportunity to serve you,” said Dr. Favors.

With the new health center being a focal point in a region primary care calls a ‘desert’ it’s a much needed addition for women across the area.

Albany Area Primary Healthcare says they’re prepared to provide healthcare to women from more than 100 miles away.

Brian Roche reporting.

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