HCAP forthcoming, pending SCBC approval

The Stephens County Hospital Authority made a recommendation for the Stephens County Board of Commissioners to oversee the Citizens Advisory Panel for the hospital during its regular scheduled meeting Monday night.

The panel would be comprised of 11 Stephens County residents who would serve staggered 1-, 2- and 3-year-terms, and would be appointed by the Board of Commissioners.

Commission Chair Michelle Ivester presented a list of 18 prospective members for the panel; however, with the cap being 11 people, the commissioners would be responsible for narrowing down the list.

Stephens County Hospital Chief Executive Officer Roger Forgey explained that the purpose of this panel is to get feedback, from members of the community, on the quality of service patients receive and areas where the hospital could improve.

Ivester told the hospital authority that she had already informed those who were interested in being part of this advisory panel that not everyone who shows an interest will be selected.

The recommendation was carried unanimously, and pending the commissioners’ response, the county should be hopeful for a community run advisory panel, which allows the Stephens County Hospital’s leadership to be more aware of what needs to be changed; therefore, better suiting the community’s needs.

The Commission will discuss guidelines and overseeing the panel during its planning retreat today at 8:30 a.m. held at the Toccoa-Stephens County Airport.