GAINESVILLE, Ga. — Dr. Antonio Rios, a longtime internal medicine physician at Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS), has been honored with the Georgia Hospital Association’s (GHA) Physician Hero Award. He is the only physician in the state to receive the recognition this year.
The award recognizes Dr. Rios’ dedication to serving the Gainesville community and beyond, both throughout his career at NGHS and through his involvement in various healthcare initiatives.
“Receiving this award is an honor, but my career has never been about recognitions like this. From starting out as a young physician new to this country, to stepping into leadership roles at NGHS, my focus has always been on expanding access to care, especially for those who need it most. And in my population health work, I’ve been able to dive even deeper into that passion,” Rios says.
Career achievements
Dr. Rios joined NGHS in March 1999 as a physician with Lanier Park Primary Care. He became an NGHS employee when the health system acquired Lanier Park Hospital and its Primary Care Clinics. His leadership skills were recognized and in 2008, he was appointed chief physician executive of Northeast Georgia Physicians Group (NGPG). After 13 years in that role, he was named NGHS’ chief of population health, while continuing to see patients in his internal medicine clinic.
Over the years, Dr. Rios has become a strong partner to Georgia Heart Institute and Longstreet Clinic. He’s also been a leader on the Georgia Board for Physician Workforce, as well as locally with District 2 Public Health. He’s volunteered for years with non-profits like Good News Clinics and has been an advocate for minority groups in the community.
“Dr. Antonio Rios has been instrumental in the growth of Northeast Georgia Health System and its ability to expand care to so many surrounding communities,” said Caylee Noggle, GHA president and CEO. “We are grateful for his dedication to his patients and his commitment to enhancing population health. It is a pleasure to honor him with this prestigious award.”
