“Georgia Rising: A Rural Health Story” documentary to spotlight rural health care at Macon Film Festival

A new documentary highlighting the challenges and strengths of rural health care in Georgia is set to debut at the Macon Film Festival.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT-DT) — A new documentary highlighting the challenges and strengths of rural health care in Georgia is set to debut at the Macon Film Festival.

“Georgia Rising: A Rural Health Story” follows medical providers as they develop creative ways to deliver care in underserved communities across the state.

The documentary explores issues including health care provider shortages, hospital closures and disparities in access to care. It also highlights the resilience of rural communities and the efforts underway to improve health outcomes.

Dr. Jean Sumner, dean of the Mercer University School of Medicine, joined 41NBC News to discuss the documentary and the state of rural health care in Georgia.

Sumner is a third-generation Georgia physician and a member of the medical school’s first graduating class.