Finding a doctor you actually trust in a small town can feel like a chore. Honestly, it’s usually easier to just drive into Jackson, right? But for folks living in Copiah County, Hazlehurst Clinic Hazlehurst MS—often referred to as Copiah Medical Associates—is the literal backbone of local healthcare.
It isn't some massive, cold corporate complex. It’s a place where the person checking your blood pressure probably knows your aunt or went to school with your cousin. That kind of connection is rare these days.
Located at 213 Caldwell Drive, this clinic sits right in the heart of town. It’s part of the broader Copiah County Medical Center (CCMC) system, which basically means you get the small-clinic vibe with the backup of a modern hospital.
What’s Actually Happening Inside the Hazlehurst Clinic Hazlehurst MS?
Most people think a rural clinic is just for flu shots or a quick Z-Pak. While they definitely do that, the scope is way wider.
The clinic operates as a primary care hub. You’ve got a mix of veteran MDs and highly skilled Nurse Practitioners who handle everything from chronic "old man" back pain to pediatric checkups.
The Medical Team
You'll likely run into names like Dr. Preston McDonnell or Dr. Randall Hankins. These guys have been around the block. Dr. McDonnell, specifically, has a reputation for being someone who "explains conditions well." That’s a direct quote from patient feedback. People appreciate a doctor who doesn't use five-dollar medical words when a fifty-cent explanation will do.
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The lineup often includes:
- Dr. Preston McDonnell, MD (Family Medicine)
- Dr. Randall Hankins, MD
- Dr. Fred McDonnell, MD
- Dr. Kenneth Whittington, MD
- Lauren Thompson, FNP-C
- Laurie Thornton, FNP-C
It’s a solid roster. Dr. Whittington has been practicing for over 30 years. You don't stay in business that long in a small town unless you’re doing something right.
Services: More Than Just the Basics
If you walk in with a weird rash or a cough that won't quit, they’ve got you. But they also handle the heavy lifting of long-term health.
We’re talking about Diabetes management, Hypertension (high blood pressure) control, and Geriatric care. Since the clinic is affiliated with Copiah County Medical Center, if things get serious, you aren’t stranded. They have a direct pipeline to radiology, lab work, and even emergency services if that "stomach ache" turns out to be an appendix about to pop.
Practical Details You Need
- Location: 213 Caldwell Dr, Hazlehurst, MS 39083.
- Phone: (601) 894-4661.
- Hours: Generally 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
Some sources mention a half-day on Saturdays (8:00 AM to 12:00 PM), but honestly, you should always call first. Schedules in rural Mississippi clinics can shift based on which provider is on call at the hospital.
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The "Local" Advantage: E-E-A-T in Real Life
Google loves to talk about "Experience" and "Expertise." In Hazlehurst, that translates to doctors who understand the specific health challenges of the Deep South.
Dietary habits, local environmental allergens, and even the stress of rural economics—the team at Hazlehurst Clinic Hazlehurst MS understands these variables better than a random doctor in a big city.
"He listens to the patient and talks to them like they are a person."
That’s a real review for Dr. Robert Walker, who also practices in this network. It sounds simple, but it's the difference between feeling like a patient and feeling like a number on a spreadsheet.
Navigating the Healthcare Maze in Hazlehurst
Let’s be real: Mississippi healthcare can be confusing. You have the main clinic on Caldwell Drive, but then there's the newer Copiah County Medical Center out on Highway 28.
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The hospital on Highway 28 is a 25-bed "Critical Access Hospital." It’s beautiful and modern. But for your day-to-day needs—refills, annual physicals, or "why does my knee click?" questions—the Caldwell Drive location is usually your first stop.
Insurance and Payments
They take Medicare and Medicaid. They also take most major private insurances. If you're worried about the bill, it’s worth noting that this system is designed to serve the community, not just people with "platinum" plans.
Actionable Steps for Your Next Visit
Don't just show up and hope for the best. To get the most out of a visit to the clinic, you should:
- Call ahead for Telehealth: Many of the providers, including Dr. McDonnell and Dr. Whittington, now offer telehealth appointments. If you just need a consultation or a quick follow-up, save the gas money.
- Bring the "Brown Bag": Literally put all your current pill bottles in a bag and bring them. It’s the fastest way for the staff to ensure your meds aren't clashing.
- Use the Patient Portal: If you’re tech-savvy, ask about the CCMC patient portal. It’s the easiest way to see your lab results without waiting for a phone call that might never come during a busy clinic day.
- Arrive Early: It’s a small town clinic. Things can run behind because a doctor might have had to step over to the hospital for an emergency. Bringing a book or a fully charged phone is just being smart.
The Hazlehurst Clinic Hazlehurst MS isn't just a building; it’s a vital resource for staying healthy without having to leave the zip code. Whether you're a lifelong resident or new to Copiah County, knowing where to turn for reliable medical advice is half the battle.