Newsroom

Merit Health Woman’s Hospital Surgical Oncologist Phillip Ley, M.D., FACS, has achieved a major milestone in breast cancer care by successfully performing the first fluorescence imaging technology procedures in the state of Mississippi. These procedures mark a significant advancement in bringing innovative, real-time cancer detection technology to patients in the region. The technology is designed to help surgeons identify residual cancer cells during breast-conserving surgery, such as a lumpectomy. By ... ... Read More

Total Impact Reached Nearly $107 Million NATCHEZ, MS – At nearly 111,000 patient encounters last year, Merit Health Natchez delivered on its commitment to provide quality healthcare for the Miss-Lou Region. The health system’s 2025 Community Benefit Report shows care extended well beyond the hospital and clinics, contributing nearly $107 million to the region through charity/uncompensated care provided, capital dollars reinvested in services and facilities, employee payroll, charitable projects and paym... ... Read More

NATCHEZ, Miss. –March 27, 2026 – In recognition of National Doctors’ Day, celebrated each year on March 30, Merit Health Natchez made a charitable contribution to the Natchez Children’s Services Children’s Advocacy Center in honor of its medical staff. The day is set aside to recognize physicians for their skills, sacrifice and service to the community. “We are grateful to the doctors on our medical staff for the steadfast care provided to the thousands of patients we treat each year throughout our comm... ... 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

Vicksburg, MS, March 5, 2026.– Merit Health River Region has welcomed orthopedic surgeon Gustavo “Gus” Barrazueta, M.D., to its medical staff. Dr. Barrazueta specializes in shoulder, elbow, hand and upper extremity surgery and is passionate about providing high-quality treatment in Vicksburg/Warren County. He chose to practice in Vicksburg because of the strong sense of community and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact. “We are excited to welcome Dr. Barrazueta to our medical staff,” said Nichol... ... Read More

Dr. Geoffrey Flattmann Joins Dr. Christopher Martin in the Practice NATCHEZ, Miss.– Merit Health Natchez today announced Dr. Geoffrey Flattmann will be joining Dr. Christopher Martin at Merit Health Medical Group General Surgery Clinic, further strengthening access to high-quality surgical care for patients in the community. The merger is scheduled to take place in April. Dr. Flattmann has been practicing general surgery in Natchez for 25 years, previously seeing patients at Flattmann Surgical Clinic. H... ... 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