Greater Augusta Healthcare Network to host community health forum and address opioid crisis

The Greater Augusta Healthcare Network (GAHN) is set to hold its annual community health forum and will discuss the overall community health status in the greater Augusta area with special presentations on the opioid crisis. Anyone interested in local healthcare issues is invited to attend.

The event will be held Sept. 20 from 8 a.m. to noon at the Kroc Center in Augusta, Georgia (1833 Broad Street).

The event will feature Dr. Stephen Goggans, district health director of East Central Public Health District, and Dr. Caroline McKinnon, assistant professor at Augusta University College of Nursing. The event will also include a discussion of the utilization of GAHN clinics and emergency departments, presentation of a public health report and various exhibits from healthcare organizations throughout the community.

GAHN is one of the signature programs spearheaded by the Augusta University College of Nursing. It was formed in 2008 to bring together a safety net of organizations, such as faith-based clinics, area hospitals and service agencies, to improve access to healthcare for the underinsured and uninsured in the area.