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Total Community Benefit Approximately $521 million in 2024 The Jackson area Merit Health hospitals provided care to thousands of area residents in 2024, with more than 498,000 patient encounters across its network of physician clinics and other outpatient sites of care. In addition to delivering safe, quality, compassionate healthcare, the health system is helping those in need, supporting charitable organizations and contributing to the area economy. In its most recent Community Benefit Report, Merit H... ... Read More

FLOWOOD, MS (April 10, 2025) – Merit Health recently wrapped up its third annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive, benefitting the Mississippi 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. This year’s drive collected nearly 5,000 jars of peanut butter for the Mississippi Food Network. Merit Health was joined in the effort by Pafford ... ... Read More

What is Occupational Therapy? In its simplest terms, occupational therapists and occupational therapy assistants help people across the lifespan participate in the things they want and need to do through the therapeutic use of everyday activities (occupations). Common occupational therapy interventions include helping children with disabilities to participate fully in school and social situations, helping people recovering from injury to regain skills, and providing support for older adults experiencing... ... Read More

Flowood, MS, March 30, 2025 - For the third consecutive year, Merit Health is celebrating National Doctors’ Day in a meaningful way—by giving back to the community in honor of their dedicated medical staff. This year, the Jackson area hospitals have once again chosen to express their appreciation by making donations to local charities selected by their physicians. National Doctors’ Day is an opportunity to recognize physicians for their expertise, compassion, and unwavering dedication to patient care. T... ... Read More

News that Harrison Ford withdrew from the 2025 Oscars ceremony due to a diagnosis of shingles has brought attention to this common, often painful, condition. Usually thought of as a childhood disease, the chickenpox can have lasting effects well into adulthood because the virus remains inactive in the body even after recovery. Years after you have had the chickenpox, the virus can reappear in the form of shingles. One in three Americans will experience shingles in their lifetime according to the Centers... ... Read More

FLOWOOD, MS, February 24, 2025 – Today, Merit Health kicked off its annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive benefitting Mississippi Food Network, and is inviting community members to participate in this effort to fight hunger in Central Mississippi. Peanut butter is a sought after item for food banks because of its high nutritional value and long shelf life. Yet, it is one of the least donated items. The Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive kicks off on February 24 and will run through March 21. “Merit Heal... ... Read More

Small, consistent changes create healthier habits to last a lifetime The new year often reignites an interest in health and wellness – in a 2024 poll, 79% of respondents said their New Years’ resolutions involved health. While sweeping resolutions are notoriously hard to keep, there are small, simple steps that you can take every day to make a lasting improvement in your health. “Even small lifestyle changes can increase longevity, reduce the risk associated with chronic disease, improve mental health a... ... Read More

At Merit Health River Oaks, stories of quick action and collaboration in emergency situations often serve as reminders of the life-saving power of teamwork. One such story recently touched hearts across the hospital, showcasing the critical role played by a family member, an emergency medical dispatcher, and the skilled medical team in overcoming a life-threatening emergency. Steven Saffold was relaxing in his favorite chair at home when his wife, Karen, noticed a change in his breathing. What began as ... ... Read More

Brush up on stroke risk factors and symptoms to protect your health FLOWOOD, MS – In the midst of all the gifts and good times, the holidays also come with a higher risk for medical emergencies, including stroke. Celebrations often include rich foods and alcohol, and busier social calendars can leave less time for exercise and sleep. Added stress from holiday preparations, shopping for gifts, increased expenses or traveling, along with millions of other holiday activities can affect the body. Cold weath... ... Read More

On October 10th, the world observes World Mental Health Day, a crucial reminder of the importance of mental well-being in our lives. This year, Merit Health takes the opportunity to highlight its behavioral health services for adults and adolescents, along with its dedicated chemical dependency program. Recognizing that mental health is deeply connected to physical health, Merit Health is committed to providing holistic care for individuals of all ages. Merit Health offers a range of services designed t... ... Read More