Press Releases

March 15, 2010

Walton Has $54 Million Dollar Impact on Local and State Economies, According to GHA Report

Augusta, GA—In 2007, Walton Rehabilitation Health System generated more than $54 million in revenue for local and state economies and sustained 649 jobs throughout the CSRA, according to a recent report by the Georgia Hospital Association.

 The report by the GHA, the state’s largest hospital trade association, examines data from Georgia hospitals and combines this information with an economic multiplier. This multiplier, developed by the United States Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Economic Analysis, measures the “ripple” effect of a local hospital on local and state economies. In 2007, Walton’s direct hospital expenditures were $22 million, and its economic impact more than double that number by factoring in Walton’s impact on other sectors, such as medical supplies, durable medical equipment and pharmaceuticals. Walton also employed 325 staff, but helped sustain an additional 324 jobs in regional industries that support Walton’s services.

 According to the GHA report, Walton also had a direct effect on rehabilitative care for community members in need, providing $6.6 million in uncompensated care.

 “As a not-for-profit health system, Walton faces a number of challenges as we continue to work toward our mission of providing comprehensive rehabilitation and support services to those with a temporary illness or injury or life-changing disability,” said Dennis Skelley, President and CEO of Walton Rehabilitation Health System. “But our mission is truly our passion. With the support of our community and our lawmakers, we hope to continue our positive impact, not only to the local and state economy, but in the lives of the patients and families we serve.”

 Challenges faced by Georgia hospitals include continued cuts in Medicare and Medicaid payments, a possible provider tax, loss of sales tax exemption and a fast-growing uninsured population.

Media Contact: Danielle Wong Moores, Public Relations Specialist, 706-434-0150

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