Forrest General Hospital’s Jones, Wahl Recognized with Doctors C.A.R.E. Awards

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (January 4, 2022) Keith Jones, MD, a neurologist/hospitalist, and medical director of stroke, and Georgia Wahl, MD, a trauma and critical care surgeon, were recognized as the fourth quarter winners of the Forrest General Hospital Doctors C.A.R.E. Awards. These awards recognize the achievements of physician members of Forrest General Hospital in service and contribution to the patient and physician community.

Jones was honored as the Physician Efficiency Champion, which is determined based on data-driven reports that track those measures, while Wahl was recognized as the Physician Communication Champion, which is based on a nomination process involving staff and physicians. These awards are presented quarterly.

The Physician Efficiency Champion highlights a physician who works to reduce waste and redundancies in the hospital environment thereby improving patient access. This includes efficient use of resources, managing length of stay, and patient safety. Coordination of care between providers directly improves the patients’ experiences and reflects positively on the physician’s quality.

Jones was chosen after review of his safety record including length of stay, mortality and readmission rates.

The Physician Communication Champion Award highlights a physician who understands that communication is at the core of patient care, whether with staff, nurses, technicians, therapists, providers, or other physicians. The physician is also willing to teach and educate nurses and team members to add to a positive patient experience. “Communication allows our physicians to connect with patients and other caregivers in powerful, impactful ways,” said Millie Swan, Forrest Health vice president.

ABOUT FORREST GENERAL HOSPITAL

Forrest General, a leader in medical excellence in south Mississippi, is the flagship hospital of Forrest Health. The 547-bed, Level II Regional Trauma Center in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, provides regional health services to a 19-county service area. Founded in 1952, the hospital’s mission — to do what is best for the patient — is grounded in “We C.A.R.E.” values of caring and compassion.