Bill Would Let ‘Micro-Hospitals’ In Rural Georgia Counties

The Georgia Senate passed a bill Thursday aimed at helping rural hospitals that have been struggling to keep their doors open, including a provision to allow “micro-hospitals” in rural counties.

Since 2012, at least six rural hospitals have closed in the state.

When a rural hospital closes, the bill would allow a hospital from a neighboring county to purchase the building to turn it into a “micro-hospital.” The “micro-hospital” would have two to seven beds and 24/7 emergency care.