Merit Health River Region Reports on its Care for Vicksburg Community in 2025
4/7/2026
Total Impact Exceeded $167 Million
Vicksburg, MS – At more than 225,000 patient encounters last year, Merit Health River Region delivered on its commitment to provide quality healthcare for the Vicksburg/Warren County community. The health system’s 2025 Community Benefit Report shows care extended well beyond the hospital and clinics, contributing more than $167 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 $13 million in taxes to support area schools and infrastructure.
The health system used its resources to increase access and strengthen services through nearly $2 million in projects. During the year, the hospital expanded specialty care by recruiting new physicians, Dr. Adam Protos in cardiothoracic surgery and Dr. Joyce Muruthi in women’s health. Investments in advanced medical technology, including a new robotic surgical platform, and upgraded nuclear medicine imaging equipment allow the hospital to offer minimally invasive procedures, enhance diagnostic capabilities, and more specialized care for patients.
The reinvestment in services benefits local residents and serves as an important resource for patients who come from other hospitals that are more than 20, 30, or even 75 miles away.
“We are here to care for our patients and the place we all call home,” said Nicholas Arledge, chief executive officer of Merit Health River Region. “Health is central to quality of life, and we offer advanced medical services here in Vicksburg/Warren County 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 Region as more than 200 babies were delivered in 2025.
Keeping patients safe remains a priority, and this focus has led to meeting the National Healthcare Safety Network’s standard infection rate related to central lines and Foley catheters. Quality of care was honored by earning national recognition from Becker’s Hospital Review as 1 of 500 hospitals in the nation with the lowest infection rate related to foley catheters.
Emergency medicine is a critical service, with more than 25,000 visits to the emergency room at Merit Health River Region. Life-saving medically necessary care was provided to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay, with more than $77 million in charity and uncompensated care in 2025.
The health system 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 Storehouse Community Food Pantry and contributions to charitable organizations such as Haven House Family Shelter and the Salvation Army, Merit Health River Region gives back to the community throughout the year.
Payroll of nearly $60 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 Arledge. “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.”
Support for the future healthcare workforce includes training the next generation of medical professionals through clinical education opportunities and partnerships with academic institutions. In 2025, Merit Health River Region hosted 30 healthcare students for clinical training, including physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and speech-language pathology students from area colleges and universities.
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