DALTON, Ga. (January 12, 2026) – The Georgia Hospital Association presented its prestigious Patient Safety and Quality Award to Hamilton Medical Center (HMC), part of Vitruvian Health, for its project that improved care of patients with sepsis. The project “Early Recognition and Intervention for Sepsis Management,” won second place in the Hospitals with 100-299 Beds category.
These annual awards recognize Georgia health care organizations for achievement in reducing the risk of medical errors and improving patient safety and medical outcomes.
Sepsis is the body’s overwhelming and life-threatening response to infection, which can lead to tissue damage, organ failure and loss of life.
Montanna Deocampo, RN, BSN, Clinical Quality Accreditation project coordinator, managed the project at HMC. The initiative utilizes a sepsis screening tool to confirm sepsis early on, allowing for sooner treatment. The sepsis tool was embedded in the electronic medical record, which promotes increased coordination and communication across departments.
Results of the initiative showed improved patient outcomes, lower length of stay in the hospital, fewer 30-day hospital readmissions and higher patient satisfaction.
“Treating sepsis symptoms as quickly and as early as possible is crucial to saving lives,” said Caylee Noggle, Georgia Hospital Association president and CEO. “We are pleased to honor Hamilton Medical Center for their dedication to patient safety, and we thank them for their crucial work in this area.”
Founded in 1929, GHA serves more than 150 Georgia hospitals and works to shape a healthier Georgia by serving as the leading advocate and supporter for all Georgia hospitals and health systems. For more information, visit gha.org.