Dr. Joseph Ratchford has been named chief medical officer for Effingham Health System. Dr. Ratchford will provide clinical guidance over the hospital’s continuing mission to offer excellence in health care for greater Effingham area residents.

“Dr. Joseph Ratchford was raised right here in Effingham County. He knows the people and has firsthand knowledge regarding their health care needs.” said Norma Jean Morgan, CEO for Effingham Health System. “There is no physician better qualified to provide oversight of our efforts to deliver an excellent patient experience. We welcome his expertise and guidance as we enter a new era in health care.”

Dr. Ratchford received his medical degree from Emory University, and completed his residency requirements for internal medicine and pediatrics at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Penn. He is a native of Guyton and is married to Mona Kight Ratchford.

They live in Springfield with their two sons. Dr. Ratchford has a long-established medical practice located on the hospital campus in Springfield.