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As one of the leading healthcare systems in Georgia and one of the top ten charity care systems in the nation, we embrace the responsibility of supporting our communities throughout the state.

Our community health efforts exist to coordinate connections between people who experience poor health outcomes and a lack of resources in order to help improve their chances for sustainable health and well-being. We do this by providing access to care through our community clinic network and community transformation programs, and by providing access to COVID-19 vaccinations and colorectal cancer and prostate cancer screenings, to name just a few examples. In fact, we have facilitated over 10,000 community vaccinations in collaboration with local public health, and we’ve distributed 1,300 Colorectal Cancer Screening Kits through our partnership with BLKHLTH.

Across Wellstar, our caregivers and team members from many disciplines work to focus their talents toward service.

Because access to healthy foods is a key component of healthy living, we endeavor to offer this support in our community efforts, including our food resource initiatives. When Wellstar’s Community Health Needs Assessments identified food insecurity as a key social determinant of health impacting the well-being of the communities we serve across the state, Wellstar joined the Goodr partner network and launched Wellstar Mobile Markets, a uniquely branded variation of pop-up grocery markets. These Mobile Markets have reached communities in metro Atlanta and beyond. Since its inception in 2020, the “Wellstar on Wheels” Mobile Market has served over 25,000 individuals.

Wellstar's Spiritual Health staff support and give care during moments when people most need it. Their primary goal is to provide a compassionate and supportive environment that allows patients, families and other caregivers to feel safe and respected. These efforts include nondenominational spiritual support for patients and family members through our congregational health network, as well as the compassionate attention of social work students on rotation in our medical centers.

The efforts of our Wellstar Women's Health caregivers support positive maternal health and wellness by providing vital resources and education to pregnant and postpartum birth givers. Wellstar has partnered with Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Coalition of Georgia (HMHBGA) to provide maternal health resources in support of new mothers and birth givers in Georgia. Part of these efforts include distributing free care packages, including practical tools and educational information. Wellstar is also part of a pilot program, Operation MIST, which is studying the maternal mortality and morbidity crisis that is impacting birth givers and the health of their babies.

All this important work, and more, to support the health of our communities highlights our Wellstar motto that we are more than healthcare, PeopleCare.

2025 Wellstar Mobile Markets

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Zion Missionary Baptist Church
888 Zion Circle
Roswell, GA
5 PM - 6 PM
March 6, April 3, May 1, June 5, September 4, October 2

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730 Park Road
Griffin, GA
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March 13, April 10, May 8, June 12, September 11, October 9

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Jackson United Methodist Church
409 East 3rd Street
Jackson, GA
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March 18, April 22, May 20, June 17, September 16, October 21

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First Presbyterian Church of Douglasville
9190 Campbellton Street
Douglasville, GA
10 AM - 11 AM
March 20, April 17, May 15, June 19, September 18, October 16

Atlanta

Center for Black Women's Wellness
477 Windsor Street SW
Atlanta, GA
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March 25, April 16, May 27, June 24, September 30, October 28

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PB Ritch Middle School
60 Old County Trail
Dallas, GA
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March 29, April 26, May 31, June 28, September 27, October 25

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Wellstar Partners to Promote Healthy Eating

Wellstar’s meaningful collaboration with Wholesome Wave Georgia and the Vitamix Foundation has united efforts to promote healthy eating and wellness in local communities.

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Wellstar Delivers PeopleCare

Wellstar is committed to enhancing the health and well-being of every person we serve in our communities.

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Empowering Community Heart Health

Wellstar and the American Heart Association collaborate to promote good heart health in our communities.

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Wellstar Partnership Reaches 1 Million People

Wellstar Community Health and Wellstar Center for Health Equity teams continue community outreach efforts around COVID-19.

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Wellstar Partners with Goodr Network

Wellstar joined the Goodr partner network launching Wellstar Mobile Markets, a uniquely branded variation of the pop-up grocery markets, to address food insecurity.

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Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia dedicates new lobby to pioneering Pediatric Surgeon Dr. Charles Howell

Newsroom

Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia dedicates new lobby to pioneering Pediatric Surgeon Dr. Charles Howell

AUGUSTA, Ga. (Oct. 13, 2025) – Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia officially cut the ribbon on its updated lobby Monday with a ceremony attended by donors, dignitaries from Wellstar, Wellstar MCG Health Medical Center, Augusta University and the city of Augusta.

There was also a very special guest in attendance, Dr. Charles Howell, who throughout his career has been one of Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia’s biggest advocates. From the stage, he watched, visibly touched, as a giant purple curtain fell, revealing the words “Dr. Charles G. Howell Jr Lobby” stretching across the lobby wall, greeting guests as they enter.

“I’m a little embarrassed,” Dr. Howell said as he took the podium.

He went on to say that many times over the years, patient families told him they didn’t know where to go for care, and now any patient who walks through the door of Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia will find physicians who are board-certified in many specialties.

“You get the best care without saying anything, and for that I am very proud,” he said.

The moment had been kept top-secret, even from many event organizers. Planners knew they were organizing a special recognition, but the identity and exact nature of the surprise was revealed to leaders on a need-to-know basis to avoid spoiling the surprise. Leaders who knew, agreed that this was just as it should be. After all, Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia would not exist without Dr. Howell’s steadfast advocacy.

There’s a well-known story that Dr. Howell offhandedly mentioned the need for a children’s hospital to a patient’s father—a spark that would lead to securing the necessary funding only a few years later. Dr. Howell did not know the comment was made to the chief aide to Rep. Tom Murphy, then Speaker of the Georgia House of Representatives. Ten years later, the children’s hospital was a reality.

Dr. Howell was also instrumental in designing the hospital, involving children and families in the process to ensure their needs were met. Children’s Medical Center, now Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia, opened in 1998 and expanded pediatric inpatient capacity from 32 to 154 beds. Dr. Howell is one of Georgia’s greatest advocates for children’s healthcare.

As part of the celebration, Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson read a proclamation declaring Oct. 13 “Dr. Charles Howell Day,” and presented him with a plaque.

Wellstar MCG Health President Ralph Turner also thanked Dr. Howell for his dedication and service to Georgia’s children.

“When someone dedicates their lives to taking care of our children and only makes one profound statement that grows into an entire facility—and he dedicates 40 years of his life taking care of children—this, today, just feels right,” Turner said.

As a pediatric surgeon, Dr. Howell has performed more than 16,000 procedures. He graduated from Medical College of Georgia in 1973 and, following a pediatric surgery residency at a children’s hospital in Philadelphia, returned to Augusta to practice.

In addition to operating on nearly 400 children each year, Dr. Howell started a pediatric ECMO program and a pediatric trauma program. He also served as capital campaign co-chair to assist in bringing Ronald McDonald House to its current location—only steps from Wellstar Children's Hospital of Georgia.

In 2018, following his 40-year surgical career, Dr. Howell retired as surgeon-in-chief of the children's hospital and chief of the department of surgery for Wellstar MCG Health. He returned to the health system in 2019 as the head of the hospital’s physician practice group.

The lobby of Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia was the first large renovation project at the children’s hospital since it was built in 1998. The renovation includes new flooring, removal of an old fountain and updated furniture. A donor wall has also been installed to recognize the generous donors who help the hospital fulfill its mission of providing patient- and family-centered care for every family who seeks care at Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia.

Wellstar Children’s Hospital of Georgia dedicates new lobby to pioneering Pediatric Surgeon Dr. Charles Howell
Keep reading
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Highlights

Wellstar Partners with Wholesome Wave Georgia and Vitamix Foundation to Promote Healthy Eating

Wellstar’s meaningful collaboration with Wholesome Wave Georgia and the Vitamix Foundation has united efforts to promote healthy eating and wellness in local communities. 

Through this partnership, Wholesome Wave Georgia helped bridge the connection between the Wellstar Community Health team and the Vitamix Foundation, creating an opportunity to directly support families with tools and education to lead healthier lives. With generous support from the Vitamix Foundation, Vitamix blenders were distributed to community members during a series of local events. 

But this initiative was about more than just providing equipment—it was about empowerment. Participants received hands-on demonstrations on how to use their new blenders to create affordable, nutritious and delicious meals. From smoothies packed with fruits and vegetables to homemade soups and sauces, attendees learned simple, healthy recipes they can replicate at home. These sessions emphasized practical ways to incorporate more whole foods into daily meals. 

The Vitamix blenders helped Wellstar promote healthy eating in an interactive and practical way. We held live demonstrations of healthy food preparation, taught nutrition facts and shared culturally relevant recipes. The blenders also became a catalyst for engagement—sparking conversations about diet, cancer prevention and overall wellness. The accompanying recipe books ensured the impact would be sustainable, giving families resources to continue making healthy choices long after the events ended. 

We heard touching stories from community members about how this initiative made a difference. 

“I have used my Vitamix many times and I love it. I have even made smoothies for guests who have shared their recipes with me. It’s great!” said Bettie Jones.

At one event, a mother of a child with autism shared her excitement about discovering new recipes that her child might enjoy. Another mother, who received the baby edition recipe guide, explained how the blender and recipes helped supplement her 2-year-old’s diet following a medical procedure that affected his teeth. Members of our cancer support group also shared how soups and smoothies offered accessible, nourishing options while managing treatment side effects. 

This collaboration reflects Wholesome Wave Georgia’s commitment to making healthy food accessible, affordable and appealing to everyone. By connecting partners and resources, Wellstar invest in the long-term health of our communities. 

Together, we are blending health, education and equity—one meal at a time. Learn more about Wellstar’s community health programs.

Keep reading
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Highlights

How Urgent Care Answers Many Healthcare Needs

The Weekly Check-up Atlanta

More patients of all ages, from young adults to busy families and seniors, are visiting Wellstar Urgent Care, attracted by the convenience and accessibility to skilled providers.

Urgent care is the appropriate first stop for many non-emergency situations, such as respiratory ailments, sports injuries and falls. You can make same-day appointments, walk in to one of our Urgent Care Centers or have a Virtual Urgent Care visit.

“It’s great for patients to have a place they know they can get in that day if they need to—for themselves or for their children,” said Dr. Andrew Thornton, a family medicine physician. Dr. Thornton is the lead physician at Wellstar Urgent Care in Holly Springs, Alpharetta and Woodstock.

“What I do to help patients in urgent care is very rewarding, and I think it fills a huge need in healthcare today.”

Need a visit quickly? Urgent care may be the answer

Many Wellstar Urgent Care locations have extended hours and are equipped to diagnose and treat illnesses and injuries, such as:

  • Cough, congestion, sore throat, fever and body aches
  • Stomach aches and distress
  • Respiratory viruses, such as flu, COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)
  • Sprains, strains and broken bones
  • Injuries from falls, workplace accidents or sports

The centers have X-ray and CT scanning equipment, and you can get school and sports physicals. The centers also administer vaccines recommended by clinicians to prevent serious illnesses.

Urgent care can help avoid unnecessary and costly emergency room visits. But it's important to remember that the Emergency Department is the right place in any potentially life-threatening situation. Dr. Thornton advised that you should head to the emergency room if you have any of these symptoms:

  • Severe chest pain, especially with tightness or squeezing
  • Open wounds with uncontrolled or rapid bleeding
  • Sudden severe pain
  • Traumatic injury, such as from a motor vehicle accident
  • Active shortness of breath
  • Suicidal thoughts
  • Stroke-like symptoms, such as:
    • Trouble speaking
    • Sudden difficulty walking
    • Arm or leg weakness
    • Sudden vision loss
    • Confusion

Urgent care fills some of today’s healthcare gaps

Wellstar is continually seeking ways to meet the evolving needs and preferences of patients and our communities.

A Kaiser Family Foundation 2018 poll found that 45% of adults ages 18 to 29 didn’t have a primary care provider. The number was 28% for adults ages 30 to 49.

Not having a primary care provider leaves you with few options if you become ill or injured. It also means you aren’t getting care that could detect serious illnesses early, when they are more treatable.

Find a primary care provider near you.

It’s not surprising that many Gen Z and millennial patients use urgent care. According to an article in The  Journal of Urgent Care Medicine, around 36% reported having been to an urgent care clinic in the past six months.

Busy families are also frequent visitors to urgent care, a fact that Dr. Thornton said he understands firsthand as parent to two children involved in sports.

Among the common injuries Dr. Thornton sees in urgent care are sports injuries, including concussions.

“As a parent, I’ve experienced the anxiety you feel when your child is suddenly sick or hurt and you don’t know if you can get in with the pediatrician that day,” he said.

Technology ties Urgent Care Centers to Wellstar specialists and services

As busy as they may become, urgent care physicians always take the time you need.

Clinicians can use electronic medical records to review your medication list, past test results and other health information. The same system allows urgent care providers to refer you for follow-up with primary care or other specialists at Wellstar.

Often, patients come to urgent care for a provider’s note to explain why they missed work or school. “We’re always happy to see you and provide the documentation you need,” Dr. Thornton said. “But while you’re here, we will do a physical exam. We can also do testing when indicated."

Another benefit to patient care is a mobile application that records patient-provider conversations, transcribes the recordings and drafts a clinical note. Dr. Thornton said the technology frees providers to observe you closely and focus on what you’re saying.

“Patients appreciate anything we can do to keep our focus on them, especially in urgent care,” he said. “It’s a fast-paced environment. We want to be able to give them every minute that we have.”

Learn more about Wellstar Urgent Care

  • Know where to go to get care —urgent care, ER, primary care or pharmacy—based on your symptoms and situation.
  • Find a Wellstar Urgent Care Center or book a virtual visit.
  • Sign up for Wellstar MyChart so you’re ready to make an urgent care visit the next time you or a family member needs one.
  • Listen to Dr. Thornton discuss Wellstar Urgent Care practice on 95.5 WSB’s The Weekly Check-Up.
Keep reading
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