Tennessee Code Title 68. Health, Safety and Environmental Protection § 68-61-102

(1) Rural hospitals provide essential healthcare services to this state's most vulnerable populations and are often the only point of access to medical care in their respective regions;

(2) Perry County Community Hospital and Decatur County General Hospital have been fundamental in delivering healthcare services in Linden and Parsons, respectively;

(3) Both Perry County Community Hospital and Decatur County General Hospital previously served their respective communities as necessary providers of healthcare services to area residents for many years, including years that precede January 1, 2006;  and

(4) The designation of these hospitals as critical access hospitals is vital for their operational stability and for the enhancement of healthcare services in rural Tennessee.