Merit Health Reports on its Care for Central Mississippi in 2025

5/20/2026

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 than $31 million in taxes supporting local schools and civic resources.

Merit Health reinvested to increase access and strengthen services through more than $28 million in projects. At Merit Health River Oaks, the addition of two new surgical robots for orthopedic procedures expanded minimally invasive options, helping reduce recovery times, shorten hospital stays, and improve surgical precision for patients across the region. The hospital also completed renovations to its Women’s Services unit, creating a more modern, comfortable environment designed to enhance safety, privacy, and the overall patient experience for mothers and newborns.

At Merit Health Woman's Hospital, the addition of a new mammography room increased capacity for breast cancer screenings and follow ups, supporting earlier detection and improved outcomes for women in the community. The campus also welcomed a new plastic surgery group, broadening access to reconstructive and cosmetic services close to home, allowing patients to receive comprehensive, coordinated care within the health system.

“We are here to care for our patients and the place we all call home,” said Greg Oden, chief medical officer of the Jackson area Merit Health network. “Health is central to quality of life, and we offer advanced medical services here in central Mississippi to make it easy to access the care you need. It’s our privilege to transform lives every day, helping patients manage their health at every stage of life.”

Area families grew with the help of Merit Health River Oaks, as the hospital delivered more than 2,000 babies in 2025, an increase of 41% over the previous year. In addition to a record number of deliveries, Merit Health River Oaks cared for over 200 neonatal intensive care unit babies (NICU) during the year. The number of NICU admissions surpassed a hospital record, and exceeded the previous year by 49%, underscoring the advanced level of care available for the region’s most vulnerable newborns.

Merit Health River Oaks continues to expand its specialized heart care services, increasing access to advanced cardiovascular treatment for patients across Rankin County and surrounding communities. Through strong relationships with University of Mississippi Medical Center cardiovascular specialists and Jackson Pulmonary Associates, along with the support of dedicated nocturnists, the hospital delivers one of the region’s most comprehensive heart care programs. A team of nine cardiology providers offers advanced diagnostics and interventional procedures and accepts referrals from outlying facilities to ensure patients can receive high-level care close to home.

In 2025, the cardiology team conducted more than 240 heart screenings — a 17% increase over the prior year — reflecting growing community trust and outreach efforts. Several of these screenings identified critical health concerns that may have otherwise gone undetected, reinforcing Merit Health’s commitment to early detection, prevention, and lifesaving intervention.

Emergency medicine remains a critical service as well, with more than 70,000 visits to the emergency rooms at Merit Health Central, Merit Health Rankin and Merit Health River Oaks. Life-saving medically necessary care was provided to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay, with more than $271 million in charity and uncompensated care in 2025.

Merit Health and its employees also support local organizations that make a difference, especially those addressing social determinants of health. Through service projects such as the annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter drive for The Mississippi Food Network and contributions to charitable organizations such as The American Heart Association and the American Cancer Society, Merit Health gives back to the community throughout the year.

Payroll of more than $140 million supports the delivery of around the clock care by a team of physicians, nurses and support staff, all passionate about serving patients. Their compassion and skills make a difference in the lives of neighbors, friends and the larger community.

“We have immense gratitude for every member of our team, and we are investing in resources to support them in their work and a culture that attracts and retains these talented people,” said Oden. “This team is passionate about delivering quality care to those who are counting on us. We have an unwavering commitment to patient safety, clinical excellence, and doing the right thing every day for those who trust us with their care.”

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