Rural hospitals in Georgia are hopeful about a tax credit program that will allow them to sustain healthcare services, Georgia Health News reports.
The three-year tax credit program, signed by Gov. Nathan Deal (R-Ga.) in April, allows tax credits on donations up to $4 million to 48 approved rural hospitals. The credits are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis and will be capped at $50 million in 2017, $60 million in 2018 and $70 million in 2019.
A task force called Rural Healthcare 180 was initiated Tuesday to promote the tax credit program. State Sen. Dean Burke, MD, said the task force is focusing on publicizing the program and improving Georgia citizens' health.
"The tax credit legislation is a lifeline for us, helping us keep essential services in our rural communities," said Kim Gilman, who runs Sylvester, Ga.-based Phoebe Worth Medical Center and Southwest Georgia Regional Medical Center in Cuthbert, Ga.
Ms. Gilman said EHRs cost more than $1 million for each hospital. In addition, both facilities need equipment upgrades and employee raises.
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