Piedmont Mountainside Hospital

10/28/2025

We’re proud to share that Piedmont Mountainside’s Ellijay Emergency Department has been certified by DNV as an Acute Stroke Ready Center a major step forward in bringing life-saving stroke care to our community.

This certification means our team is equipped and trained to quickly diagnose and treat strokes, especially in rural areas where access to larger hospitals may be limited. And when it comes to stroke, Time is Brain the faster the care, the better the outcome.

“This certification lets our community know that we have the resources and commitment to provide the best possible stroke care,” said Denise Ray, CEO of Piedmont Mountainside. “It’s a reflection of the incredible effort our team has put into building a program that prioritizes patient safety and rapid response.”

We’re proud to serve North Georgia with expert, compassionate care close to home.

🔗 Learn more about our stroke care services: https://piedmont.org/mountainside

10/24/2025

More than 25 healthcare professionals including a multidisciplinary team from Piedmont Mountainside Hospital participated in the Rural Interactive Trauma Simulation Course on October 2 at the Ellijay Community Center. Hosted by the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, the full-day training combined classroom learning with hands-on simulations, preparing rural providers to deliver life-saving trauma care in resource-limited settings.

“Our team is proud to take part in this kind of advanced training,” said Nick Zelinsky, RN, Director of Emergency Services in Jasper and Ellijay. “Courses like this prepare our providers to respond confidently and effectively when every second counts.”

Piedmont Mountainside remains committed to clinical excellence and community health investing in education and collaboration to deliver expert, compassionate care across North Georgia.

Learn more about our trauma care services: https://piedmont.org/mountainside

10/10/2025

Come shop, give, and support the next generation of healthcare heroes.

The Judy Shaw Scholarship honors the legacy of Judy Shaw, a beloved nurse and volunteer who dedicated over 40 years of service to the North Georgia and Atlanta communities, most notably at Piedmont Mountainside Hospital. Since its founding, the scholarship has awarded $40,000 to local nursing students.

🛍️ Community Yard Sale Benefiting Future Nurses
Join the Piedmont Mountainside Hospital Auxiliary for a community yard sale on:
📅 Friday, October 10 (8 AM – 4 PM)
📅 Saturday, October 11 (8 AM – 12 PM)
📍 65 Salem Church Road, Jasper, GA

All proceeds support the Judy Shaw Scholarship Program, which helps aspiring nurses in Pickens and Gilmer counties pursue their education.

🛒 What You’ll Find:
Gently used household items, clothing, toys, books, furniture, and more — all donated by local community members.

📞 Questions? Contact Mary Ghorley at 706-301-5519 or mary.ghorley@piedmont.org.

10/10/2025

In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Piedmont Mountainside is offering free mammogram screenings to uninsured women at our Jasper and Ellijay locations on Thursday, October 17, 2025.

We know how important early detection is, and we’re committed to making breast health more accessible for those who need it most.

📍 Screening Locations
• Piedmont Mountainside Outpatient Imaging – East Ellijay
370 W Highlands Drive, Ellijay, GA – 12 appointments available
• Piedmont Mountainside Hospital – Jasper
1266 Hwy 515 South, Jasper, GA – 15 appointments available
Appointments are first-come, first-served and available by scheduling only.

📞 To reserve your spot, call 706-301-5517.
Let’s take care of ourselves and each other.
"

10/01/2025

Kenya Buggs, 32, had a liver transplant this summer at Piedmont Atlanta Hospital —just seven months after giving birth to her daughter. Kenya needed a new liver because she has autoimmune hepatitis, a disease in which the immune system attacks the liver. October is Liver Disease Awareness Month, and Kenya wants to raise awareness of the importance of early detection of autoimmune hepatitis and other liver diseases to prevent liver damage. She also wants people to know that not all liver diseases are alcohol-related—hers isn’t. Kenya’s transplant hepatologist, Dr. Devina Bhasin, says patients should talk to their primary care doctor about available screening. Today, Kenya is thriving back at home in Warm Springs, Georgia with her new baby and new liver, thanks to the great care she received from Piedmont Transplant Institute.

09/25/2025

Here's a preview of our latest Living Real Change Podcast episode: Suicide Prevention and Overcoming the Mental Health Stigma

In this powerful Living Real Change Podcast, Medical Director of Behavioral Health at Piedmont Eastside Brian Wright, M.D., sheds light and shares insight on one of today’s most urgent public health crises: suicide. Click here to listen: https://youtu.be/PzJtAXhq6jw.

09/24/2025

If the agenda is ending pancreatic cancer, here’s our agenda.

Piedmont Oncology has put together a half day conference with the most respected voices in research, surgery and care. Our all-star lineup features medical thought leaders in early detection, precision medicine and multidisciplinary care. These are the experts shaping the future, saving lives and providing hope.

Click here to learn more and see the full agenda: https://www.piedmont.org/cancer/pancreatic-liver/pancreas-conference

09/23/2025

Piedmont Mountainside is proud to host a special Ladies’ Evening Out event on Thursday, October 2, from 5-7:30 p.m. at Chattahoochee Technical College.

Attendees will enjoy refreshments, door prizes, raffle items, and access to local vendors including Mary Kay, Pampered Chef, and Scentsy.
Special guest speakers will share insights on breast health issues, including prevention, early detection, and treatment options. Ladies can even get help scheduling their annual mammogram.

09/19/2025

Joel Neighbors had high calcium buildup noted by a doctor nearly 10 years ago. When the doctor moved away, he never followed up. Joel was referred to Dr. Neetu Reddy with Piedmont Physicians of Jasper last year.

During each office visit, Dr. Reddy insisted Joel get further tests, noting her concern for his high calcium score from a decade ago. Finally taking her advice, he made an appointment with a cardiologist, and an echocardiogram revealed Joel had approximately 90% blocked arteries, which could ultimately lead to a heart attack, stroke or other life-threatening conditions. As a result, Joel had multiple bypass surgeries in February and is now living a healthier life!

Joel couldn't believe Dr. Reddy dug so deep going back years in his file— not treating him as just a number but provided compassionate, hassle-free care. He encourages others to establish a relationship with a primary care provider, because even if you have no symptoms or pain, getting regular checkups and following up could be lifesaving.

To find a primary care provider near you, visit Piedmont.org/PrimaryCare.

09/17/2025

September marks National Atrial Fibrillation (AFib) Awareness Month. Ashish Bhimani, M.D., Chief of Electrophysiology at the Piedmont Heart Institute, says it is important to increase awareness of atrial fibrillation and other common conditions treated by electrophysiology. Without treatment, AFib can lead to blood clots, stroke, dementia and heart failure.

Learn more about signs and symptoms of AFib and how you can manage modifiable risk factors: https://www.piedmont.org/about-piedmont-healthcare/media-room/stories/news-article?story=5603&type=1.

09/15/2025

Tickets are still available to Piedmont Oncology’s inaugural Luminaria Gala on October 25 at Flourish Atlanta. Presented by Brasfield & Gorrie and emceed by WSB-TV's Wendy Corona, this night of hope and celebration will illuminate a new tomorrow in discovery, innovation, and leading-edge cancer care for the more 14,000 newly diagnosed cancer patients we care for each year throughout Georgia.

Learn more and get your tickets today at piedmontluminaria.org. Lockton Companies Truist Brainlab Atlanta Breast Care, PC Amwins

09/13/2025

Piedmont Mountainside is proud to offer a complimentary prostate cancer screening event on Friday, Sept. 19 from 8 to 11 a.m. at the newly opened Piedmont Mountainside Radiation Oncology Center.

Prostate cancer screening has advanced significantly in recent years. Today, it involves a simple prostate-specific antigen (PSA) blood test, which can help detect early signs of prostate cancer. The screening is quick and non-invasive, and participants will receive their results by mail.

Men over the age of 50, as well as those with a family history of prostate cancer, are especially encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity for early detection. This event reflects Piedmont Mountainside’s ongoing commitment to community health by providing convenient access to essential preventive care for men in the region.

For more information, please contact Donna Reece, Community Outreach Coordinator, at 770.712.8535 or donna.reece@piedmont.org.

09/11/2025

Piedmont Transplant Institute and Piedmont Heart Institute surgeons have performed an innovative joint liver-heart transplant. The joint transplant for an adult patient is the first in Georgia in a decade, and just the second adult procedure performed in the state.

Piedmont is a destination for healthcare as Piedmont Atlanta is one of the busiest transplant centers in the country. Since the first in 2005, over 2,100 liver transplants have been performed at Piedmont Atlanta. There was a 24% increase in heart transplants this past fiscal year compared to the year prior. Click here to learn more: https://www.piedmont.org/about-piedmont-healthcare/media-room/stories/news-article?story=5543&type=1.

09/09/2025

Surgical Director of Heart Transplant and Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) Program at Piedmont Heart Institute Dr. Ezequiel Molina shares how his team is tackling one of the Southeast’s most pressing health challenges. From lifesaving LVAD implants and record-setting transplant programs to groundbreaking heart-kidney procedures, Dr. Molina explains why early diagnosis matters, how cutting-edge therapies are changing lives and what’s ahead for heart failure treatment in the next decade.

The Living Real Change podcast is available on all major platforms.
Apple: https://apple.co/3T4qTDX
Spotify: https://sptfy.com/QdjQ

09/07/2025

Ellen White from St. Simons Island never expected to become a patient at Piedmont, but the quality care and compassionate support she received inspired her to give back.

Despite experiencing fatigue and pain, Ellen drove to Columbus to help her granddaughter with a school project— only to end up needing help at the Piedmont Columbus Northside Emergency Department, where doctors discovered she had suffered a massive heart attack. She was rushed to Piedmont Columbus Midtown, where surgeons inserted two life-saving stents. Her recovery took a turn when she was later diagnosed with kidney failure and spent several days in the ICU at Piedmont Columbus Northside. Thanks to Piedmont’s high-quality care, Ellen is now regaining her strength and even traveled to Rhode Island in July!

To show her gratitude, Ellen made a donation through the Piedmont Foundation's Thank a Caregiver program, honoring registered nurse Billy Brewer, Dr. Fnu Sonia, and the ICU team whose kindness made all the difference. Want to honor a Piedmont caregiver who impacted your journey? Visit: piedmont.org/gratitude.

09/04/2025

On September 4, 2024, Apalachee High School was rocked by tragedy when two teachers and two students lost their lives and nine other victims were hospitalized. Today we honor the memory of those lost, the resiliency of the Apalachee community, and the heroes who rallied around them.

David Phenix, an Apalachee High School special education teacher was shot twice that day and EMS rushed him to Piedmont Athens Regional for care. There he found more than just treatment, he found a team committed to providing the highest quality care, so he could return to the life he loves.

From walking his daughter down the aisle to returning to the classroom, David’s journey is a powerful affirmation of gratitude for each moment and our ability to make a positive difference in every life we touch.

David Phenix, a teacher at Apalachee High School, recounts the tragic event on September 4, 2024, and the quality of care he received by the staff at Piedmon...

09/03/2025

Justin and Breana Hendrix struggled for 10 years to get pregnant. They went through failed attempts at Intrauterine insemination, in vitro fertilization and timed cycles. Under the high-quality care of the Piedmont Physicians Surgical Specialists and Bariatrics team, they both had minimally invasive gastric bypass surgery in 2023 at Piedmont Columbus Regional Northside. Justin and Breana both lost nearly 180 pounds!

Their prayers were answered when they welcomed a baby boy named Maverick into the world last month! Breana says they’re blessed beyond measure and are all healthy.

Visit Piedmont.org/Bariatrics to learn more about our weight loss services and how you can take that first step in your journey.

09/03/2025

Illuminate hope. Advance care.

Join us at Piedmont Oncology Luminaria, where every light honors a life and every step forward is powered by your support. With the leadership of Dr. Wally Curran and , we’re transforming cancer care across Georgia- delivering high-quality, compassionate treatment and driving groundbreaking research.

Secure your tickets today at piedmontluminaria.org.

With deep gratitude, we thank our generous sponsors whose unwavering support helps bring light, healing, and hope to countless lives. Your commitment is making a .

Brasfield & Gorrie Lockton Companies Truist Brainlab Atlanta Breast Care, PC Amwins

08/29/2025

The Piedmont Mountainside Medical Executive Committee recently made a generous $1,000 donation to the Weekend Snack Program, a local nonprofit initiative dedicated to fighting childhood hunger in the community. Click here to learn more: https://www.piedmont.org/about-piedmont-healthcare/media-room/stories/news-article?story=5529&type=1.

We're grateful to have team members who care for the communities we serve inside and out of the hospital!

Jasper, Ga. (August 11, 2025) – The Piedmont Mountainside Medical Executive Committee made a generous $1,000 donation today to the Weekend Snack Program, a local nonprofit initiative dedicated to fighting childhood hunger in the community. The Weekend Snack Program currently serves 675 stud

07/15/2025

Melissa Scott’s fight against breast cancer is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the importance of yearly mammograms.
Last October, during a routine mammogram, she was diagnosed with breast cancer that would lead her down a ten-month fight for her life. She says she found solace in her care team’s unwavering commitment to her care—providing support and constant guidance navigating the treatment process—along with having easy access to high-quality care close to home.
At her final radiation appointment, family members, along with her care team, gathered to celebrate, witnessing her triumphant ringing of the bell to mark the completion of this phase of her journey.
Piedmont Mountainside is proud to have made a positive difference in Melissa’s life as we continue to strive to empower those in our community!

Jasper, Ga. (June 10, 2025) – When Melissa Scott scheduled her routine yearly mammogram at Piedmont in October, she never anticipated that she would soon embark on a life-changing journey. But when she was called back for further testing and diagnosed with breast cancer right before Thanksgivi

06/12/2025

Piedmont Mountainside has officially opened its brand-new healthcare facility with a special ribbon-cutting celebration! This state-of-the-art building is a testament to our commitment to bringing advanced, compassionate care closer to home. From emergency services to primary care, OB/GYN, cardiology, imaging, and more—our new facility is designed to meet the needs of our growing community. Together, we’re transforming healthcare across Georgia!

04/25/2025

Jamie Quinn has been a dedicated member of the Piedmont Mountainside Auxiliary since 2010, serving in various leadership roles including President and President Elect. As the Judy Shaw Scholarship Chairman, Jamie has been instrumental in awarding over $20,000 to nursing students in memory of beloved nurse Judy Shaw.

04/17/2025

Shea Hammontree faced life-threatening complications during childbirth and urgently sought care at Piedmont Mountainside. The medical team swiftly admitted her and performed an emergency cesarean section. When severe bleeding occurred, they conducted a lifesaving hysterectomy. Shea recovered in the ICU and praised the compassionate Labor and Delivery staff for their informative and comforting approach, calling it her best hospital experience despite the emergencies.
This case highlights Piedmont Mountainside's dedication to women's health through high-quality care. Read Shea's full story!

Jasper, Ga. (March 12, 2025) – In a remarkable display of medical expertise and teamwork, Piedmont Mountainside Hospital recently turned a life-threatening situation into a positive outcome for a patient experiencing severe complications during childbirth. Shea Hammontree decided to have a

02/03/2025

Piedmont Mountainside has officially opened its new 8,760-square-foot Radiation Oncology Facility! This state-of-the-art center will bring advanced outpatient radiation oncology services to patients across northwest Georgia, including Pickens, Fannin, Gilmer, Gordon, and Murray counties. It features the latest technology, including a linear accelerator, CT simulation scanner, and Brainlab ExactTrac Dynamic for precise radiosurgery treatments—a first in the Piedmont system!

We’re proud to expand our services and provide high-quality care close to home for our communities.