Sampson Regional Medical Center (SampsonRMC) joins healthcare organizations across the nation in celebrating National Rural Health Day – a time to honor the dedication, innovation, and resilience of rural healthcare providers and the communities they serve. 

This year’s observance holds special meaning as SampsonRMC celebrates its 75th anniversary, marking seven and a half decades of caring for the people of Sampson County and surrounding areas. Since opening its doors in 1950, the hospital has remained steadfast in its mission to provide compassionate, accessible, and high-quality healthcare right here at home. 

“For 75 years, our hospital has been a cornerstone of this community,” said Dr. Shawn Howerton, Chief Executive & Chief Medical Officer for SampsonRMC. “National Rural Health Day reminds us of the unique role we play in ensuring that quality healthcare is available close to home. Our commitment goes beyond providing care; it’s about building relationships, supporting families, and strengthening the health of our community for generations to come.”

While rural healthcare faces challenges such as workforce shortages and limited resources, SampsonRMC’s leadership sees these as opportunities for innovation and growth. Through programs that support both patients and staff, the hospital continues to adapt and thrive, ensuring residents have access to care without leaving their community.

“What makes rural healthcare special is the personal connection,” explained Tammy King, Chief Nursing Officer for SampsonRMC. “We know our patients; they are our neighbors, our teachers, our friends. When you care for people you see in the grocery store or at church, it deepens your sense of purpose. It’s about caring for the whole person, not just their condition.”

Employees across the hospital echoed that same sense of pride and purpose.

“Serving in a rural hospital gives you the opportunity to care for all kinds of patients, and that variety keeps us sharp. You learn to adapt, think on your feet, and work as a team,” shared Chief Resident, Dr. Matthew Ammons.

SampsonRMC is looking to the future by investing in the next generation of healthcare professionals. The hospital’s Family Medicine Residency Program, in partnership with Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine, plays a key role in training new physicians to serve in rural settings. By offering hands-on experience and mentorship in a community hospital environment, SampsonRMC is helping shape future doctors who are both skilled and community-minded.
In addition, the hospital partners with local community colleges to develop pathways for nursing, allied health, and technical careers. These collaborations help nurture local talent and provide students with opportunities to train and build lasting careers right here at home. 

“Recruitment in rural communities can be challenging, so building connections early with students and residents has helped with retention of staff who are trained to meet the needs of our growing community,” stated Howerton. This is evident through the many Family Medicine Residents who have decided to call SampsonRMC home after residency. 

Both Dr. Allison Matte and her husband, Andrew Matte, RN, are examples of this. Dr. Allison Matte completed SampsonRMC’s Family Medicine Residency program and is now a faculty member in family medicine, practicing at Sampson Medical Group of Clinton, and also guides future residents. Her husband, Andrew, is a registered nurse and a 13-year Navy Veteran currently serving as a Nurse Corps Officer in the Navy Reserve and is an ICU nurse at SampsonRMC, among other roles within the hospital. “When we came to Clinton from Madison Heights, Michigan, we were not expecting to make Clinton our home, but the community connection and the sense of family are what drew us to stay,” shared Dr. Allison Matte. 

As Sampson Regional Medical Center reflects on its 75-year legacy, its focus remains forward, guided by the same values that have shaped it since the beginning: compassion, community, and commitment. 

“Our mission has always been about more than just healthcare,” shared Howerton. “It’s about being here for our community – past, present, and future.”

For more information on the hospital’s history, visit www.SampsonRMC.org/75thAnniversary. 

Dr. Allison Matte, Faculty for SampsonRMC’s Family Medicine Program and Dr. Hailey Boyd, PGY3 Family Medicine Resident, meet to discuss a patient.