Newsroom

Recently, Merit Health River Oaks and Merit Health Woman’s Hospital welcomed back dozens of former neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) patients and their families for a special NICU reunion celebration honoring the journeys of some of the hospital’s tiniest patients. The event brought together NICU graduates, parents, nurses, physicians, therapists and staff members for a day filled with smiles, hugs, laughter and heartfelt reunions. Families had the opportunity to reconnect with the caregivers who supp... ... Read More

At more than 410,000 patient encounters last year, the Jackson area Merit Health hospitals delivered on their commitment to provide quality healthcare for the central Mississippi community. The health system’s 2025 Community Benefit Report shows care extended well beyond the hospital and clinics, contributing more than $495 million to the region through charity/uncompensated care provided, capital dollars reinvested in services and facilities, employee payroll, charitable projects, and payment of more t... ... Read More

FLOWOOD, MS – Merit Health recently wrapped up its fourth annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive, benefitting the local Food Network. Held in celebration of National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day on April 2, the initiative brought together local businesses, organizations and community members to help combat hunger in Central Mississippi. Merit Health was joined in the effort by Pafford and AMR Emergency Medical Services, AccentCare Home Health, Hinds Community College Nursing and Allied Health, Holmes Co... ... Read More

Merit Health River Oaks has announced the opening of its new OB emergency room, the first and only obstetric emergency department in Rankin County, providing specialized, around-the-clock emergency care for expectant mothers. Designed specifically to meet the urgent needs of pregnant patients, the OB emergency room will provide care for women experiencing pregnancy-related concerns. The unit features five private exam rooms and is staffed by board-certified OB physicians, experienced nurses and highly q... ... Read More

FLOWOOD, MS - January 12, 2026 — Merit Health River Oaks is celebrating an extraordinary year in maternal and newborn care, marked by historic milestones that reflect the hospital’s deep commitment to caring for families across Rankin County and the greater Jackson area. In 2025, 2,043 deliveries took place at Merit Health River Oaks, representing an increase of 43% over the previous year. Each birth tells a unique story, and together they represent thousands of moments filled with hope, anticipation, a... ... Read More

FLOWOOD, MS - December 17, 2025 - Merit Health River Oaks is proud to celebrate its strong partnership with Pafford EMS, which has been recognized by the American College of Cardiology (ACC) with the prestigious Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Partner in Care Recognition. This honor is awarded to EMS agencies that demonstrate exceptional collaboration with an ACC-accredited or certified Chest Pain Center to ensure the highest level of care for patients who may be experiencing a heart attack. The ACC’s ... ... Read More

Merit Health River Oaks and Merit Health Woman’s Hospital are pleased to announce the appointment of John Whiteside, MHA, MBA, as chief executive officer, effective November 17, 2025. Whiteside joins Merit Health with more than 13 years of progressive healthcare leadership experience. He most recently served as CEO of the Riverton and Lander campuses of the SageWest Healthcare system in Riverton, Wyoming. During his tenure, he led successful recruitment efforts across key specialties—including primary c... ... Read More

Flowood, MS – The last several months of the year are often spent enjoying cooler weather, watching football and preparing for the holidays. This is also a great time to review your health plan to determine whether you’ve met or are close to meeting your insurance deductible. If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), it’s time to check the balance for the remainder of the year. Scheduling elective procedures and preventive screenings before the end of the year can help to maximize your healthcare d... ... Read More

FLOWOOD, MS – Merit Health has developed an exciting new initiative designed to empower our community to live longer, healthier lives. Enjoy the Ride: Navigating a Longer, Healthier Life is a FREE 12-day, longevity-focused email series launching on Sept. 15. According to the CDC, Americans’ average lifespan is longer than ever – 74.8 years for men and 80 for women. But Americans’ healthspan – how long a person is healthy and free of disease – is decreasing. Baby Boomers are more likely than their parent... ... Read More

The American Heart Association presents Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke Gold Plus award for proven dedication to ensuring all stroke patients have access to best practices and life-saving care FLOWOOD, MS, July 22, 2025 — Merit Health River Oaks has received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® - Stroke: Gold Plus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensuring stroke patients receive the most appropriate treatment according to nationally recognized, research-based guidel... ... Read More