I have been a practicing physician for nearly two decades.During that time, I have examined, diagnosed, and treated many thousands of patients.

Last week, however, the tables were turned as I became a patient.

I had begun experiencing mild abdominal cramps in the late afternoon. By midnight, I was literally writhing in pain and finally accepted that I needed help. Though my wife is now a stay-at-home mom caring for our two children, as a former ER nurse, she, too, recognized I was in trouble and drove me to the emergency department at South Georgia Medical Center.

Since moving to Valdosta last year, I had often heard that SGMC was experiencing many problems, from long wait times in the ER, to hospital-wide staffing shortages. With my pain nearly unbearable, in the essence of time I suggested to my wife that we avoid the SGMC ER and travel to another facility. Having worked there in the past, she insisted that SGMC ER was the place to go – her instincts proved correct.

We arrived at approximately 1 a.m. The ER was busy but not crowded. Courteous and efficient, the admissions clerks completed the registration process within minutes. Less than 10 minutes later, I was in triage where a very attentive nurse completed the triage process with much kindness.

I was then taken to an ER exam room where, within 15 minutes, I had been examined by a very competent ER physician, had my blood drawn, and had my pain controlled with medication. A CT scan later indicated I was suffering from acute appendicitis.

A general surgeon was then contacted and surgery scheduled later that morning. During the pre-op and recovery phases, I was treated with great compassion. The nurses, techs, physicians, and ancillary and support staff members were all consummate professionals.

Knowing what I know now, had I to do it all over again, I would most certainly seek medical care at SGMC. It should be understood that I do not work at SGMC or any subsidiary thereof. Prior to this experience, my opinion of SGMC was based on hearsay.

Now, after having visited the ER and having had surgery there, my opinion of SGMC is based upon something far more tangible and meaningful – experience. As a resident of Lowndes County, I take comfort in knowing SGMC is just a few miles from my home. Further, to anyone needing medical care, I would recommend SGMC without reservation.

I wish to offer special thanks to the following members of the SGMC team: Dr. Alan Stout, Gina Reid, Tara Powell, Dr. David Parker, Angie Perry, Dr. Qiheng Shen, Kim Montague, and numerous others whose names I do not know but whose efforts I appreciate just as much.

Spencer Price, MD, MBA