South Fulton's Medical Desert: New Hospital Proposal Unveiled

South Fulton faces a significant healthcare gap, prompting a $900 million proposal to establish a new hospital in Union City. Currently, residents must travel at least 30 minutes to access emergency services, a situation described as a "medical desert." The proposed facility, located 20 minutes southwest of East Point, aims to make emergency care more accessible.

This initiative seeks to alleviate pressure on Grady, Atlanta's sole Level 1 trauma center. The project involves a phased approach, with a freestanding emergency clinic scheduled to open in June. If Fulton County Commissioners approve the plan, the full hospital could be operational within five to six years. Funding will be shared among Fulton County government ($300 million), Grady Hospital ($300 million), and the Fulton-Dekalb Hospital Authority ($300 million). A vote on the proposal is expected soon.