2026 State of Healthcare Forum Highlights Progress and Future of Decatur Morgan Hospital
There’s a lot to be excited about at Decatur Morgan Hospital. During the Decatur-Morgan County Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 State of Healthcare Forum on August 27, local business and community leaders heard about the hospital’s progress, what’s ahead and how employers can work with the hospital to support the health of their workforce.
Kelli Powers, President of Decatur Morgan Hospital, led the morning’s program, beginning with an update on the hospital’s Better Than Ever campaign. Powers shared that Decatur Morgan Hospital has added 31 new physicians this year across a range of specialties while continuing to invest in new technology, facilities and expanded services.
Powers was joined by Dr. James Boyle, Dr. Graeme McFarland, Dr. Steve Shassberger and Dr. Joseph Carter took attendees behind the scenes of the hospital’s Better Than Ever campaign, discussing several commercials highlighting quality and safety, advancements in surgery and vascular care, women’s health and emergency care.
The morning then turned to the connection between healthcare and a strong workforce. Paige Norris, Vice President of Operations, and Jeffrey Sherrill, Service Director of Diagnostic Services, joined Powers to discuss how Decatur Morgan Hospital can partner with local employers to make preventive care more accessible, identify health concerns earlier and connect employees with the care they need. The conversation included opportunities for on-site screenings, occupational medicine, early detection and ongoing partnerships tailored to the needs of businesses of all sizes.
Looking ahead, Powers shared several areas that will continue shaping healthcare in the community, including Decatur Morgan Hospital’s new Family Medicine Residency Program, the use of artificial intelligence in healthcare, efforts to develop the next generation of healthcare professionals and expanded access to care throughout the region.
Nearly 50 healthcare students and their teachers from Decatur City, Morgan County and Hartselle City Schools also attended the forum through the Chamber’s One Vision Foundation. Their participation provided an opportunity to hear directly from healthcare professionals and learn more about the careers and opportunities available in the industry.
Chamber President & CEO Reggie Ash closed the program by highlighting the important role a strong healthcare system plays in supporting a strong community and workforce.
The 2026 State of Healthcare Forum was presented by Decatur Morgan Hospital. Gold sponsors were Alabama Credit Union – Decatur, Decatur Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine and Drake Eye Center.