By AMBER PATINO
Community leaders and healthcare professionals gathered Tuesday, June 23, to celebrate the ribbon cutting of the new Bonifay Rural Health Clinic, marking what officials described as a major step forward for healthcare access in Holmes County. The new clinic is located at 2910 Hospital Drive, Suite A, in Bonifay, directly behind Doctors Memorial Hospital.
According to Doctors Memorial Hospital, the facility was funded through USDA Rural Development and state grants and will provide additional space for expanded services, improved patient access, and future growth in specialized care.
Speakers at the ceremony included Cynthia Brooks, Chairman of the Doctors Memorial Hospital Board of Directors; State Rep. Shane Abbott, District 5; Brad Drake, former state representative and current Walton County Commissioner, District 3; Bonifay Mayor Larry Cook; Chalice Honeycutt, USDA Rural Development area specialist; and Amanda Pate, director of outpatient services for the Bonifay Rural Health Clinic.
During his remarks, Mayor Cook emphasized that the new clinic is “much more than a band‑aid station,” calling it a place that saves lives and provides critical healthcare services for the community.
Hospital officials said operations will transition to the new facility over the next several weeks, with patient services expected to begin by the end of next month.
The project represents a significant investment in the health and well‑being of Holmes County residents, expanding access to quality medical care close to home.
Staff Report 