Yesterday, a ribbon cutting ceremony marked the official opening of Athens' newest and most anticipated retirement living community, The Oaks ofAthens. Dignitaries attending the event included Georgia Speaker of the House, David Ralston,Athens-Clarke County Mayor Nancy Denson, and members of the Georgia Board of Regents and theUniversity of Georgia. Shortly before, Chairman & CEO, Neil L. Pruitt, Jr. announced that, after 44 successful years, UHS-Pruitt Corporation will soon change its name to PruittHealth, and modify its branding to achieve a more unified image for its vast array of services.

In the weeks ahead, the rehabilitation center will accept patients into the first phase of the planned community, a $22 million dollar rehabilitation and post-acute care center. The Oaks offers state-of-the-art accommodations and therapy options which provide comfort, convenience and the finest in quality health care. The Oaks of Athens is a 45-acre sprawling community just north of the 10 Loop and just a few miles from downtown Athens.

The skilled nursing and rehabilitation center amenities include an advanced therapy wing for in-patient and out-patient treatment, indoor aquatic therapy pool, coffee shop serving Starbucks coffee, two movie theaters, four restaurant-style dining venues, a library and internet cafe, barber/beauty services, a chapel, and other luxurious accommodations that allow residents to recuperate comfortably. Future community plans include everything from custom built homes and condominiums to additional health support options like assisted living and memory support care.

"We have been carefully planning for this day for years, and it is very exciting to now welcome guests to The Oaks of Athens. Community members can settle into a place they are proud to call home, where they can enjoy their favorite pastimes but feel comfortable and safe knowing that quality health care services are available," said Neil L. Pruitt, Jr., Chairman & C.E.O. of UHS-Pruitt Corporation. "Athens was chosen for this development because of the growing need for our services and amenities in the area, as well as for its remarkable retirement supported lifestyle."     

Athens has long been hailed as one of the country's best places to retire, according to published sources such as Forbes and CNN Money. Future residents of The Oaks will be perfectly positioned to take advantage of all the city has to offer, including its affordable cost of living, award-winning health care system, renowned education opportunities, and vast array of dining and entertainment options.