ARC gives grant to CCMC

Choctaw County Medical Center has been awarded a grant of $157,725 from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) to install a sprinkler system, Congressman Travis Childers (D-MS) announced.

"It is essential that Mississippians in rural areas have access to quality medical care," said Congressman Childers. "These significant funds will allow Choctaw County Medical Center to meet safety code standards that ensure its ability to continue serving patients, while also protecting the safety of both patients and staff. As Representative of the First District, I am very appreciative of the ARC's commitment to the health of Choctaw County residents. The Commissions' investment is a great example of how government can help strengthen rural Mississippi and rural America."

The Choctaw County Medical Center was built in 1960 and its original design did not include a sprinkler system. Mississippi now mandates that all hospitals and medical facilities comply with the Life Safety Code, which establishes design criteria to allow for the prompt escape from buildings that are engulfed in fire. The state is requiring the Choctaw Medical Center comply with the safety code or risk permanent closure.

ARC funding will be used to install a sprinkler system that will extend throughout the entire facility, including 25 patient rooms, administrative offices, the nurses' station and activity/dining spaces. The center is the only such facility in the county and its closure would place a severe hardship on local residents who would have to drive 45 miles to receive similar medical care.

In addition to ARC funds, local sources will provide $39,431, bringing the total project funding to $197,156.