MACON, GA — One notable country star wanted to help his hometown in central Georgia as healthcare providers nationwide face the coronavirus pandemic. With hospitals and care facilities located across central Georgia, Navicent Health in Macon is on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19.

Macon native and multi-platinum entertainer Jason Aldean supported his hometown by donating $200,000 to assist with healthcare needs. The hospital is located in Bibb County, which as of Thursday night has 53 confirmed coronavirus cases and one death, according to the Georgia Department of Public Health. The death was of a 96-year-old woman with underlying medical conditions. Macon has 15 confirmed cases and no deaths.

Funds will be used to support coronavirus response efforts, including: To purchase coronavirus testing equipment for Navicent Health's laboratory, allowing testing to be performed in-house and test results to be returned much quicker.

To purchase virtual technology that will allow Navicent Health's intensive care physicians to assist community hospitals in rural areas.

Through the technology, intensivists at Navicent Health can monitor patients remotely and consult with the care teams at each individual hospital.

To purchase personal protective equipment, including but not limited to N95 masks, gowns, gloves and goggles.

To support Feed the Fight, a Navicent Health initiative that supports locally owned restaurants that have closed due to COVID-19 by purchasing meals from restaurants to feed frontline healthcare workers. "These are currently our most pressing needs, and the projects we will be able to support are dependent on total funds raised," said Ellen Terrell, president of Navicent Health Foundation. "We are grateful for Jason's continued support and his commitment to his hometown. We hope this will result in the greatest good for central Georgia during this unprecedented time."

