SGMC Health expands its Heart & Vascular program by welcoming Jim Foster, MD, a board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon, to its growing team. Dr. Foster brings more than two decades of experience caring for patients with complex heart and lung conditions, expanding access to advanced cardiothoracic surgical care for patients across South Georgia and North Florida.

As a cardiothoracic surgeon, Dr. Foster specializes in the surgical treatment of chest-related conditions involving the heart and lungs. He is passionate about helping patients achieve meaningful improvements in both quality of life and long-term health outcomes through surgical intervention. Known for his open and accessible approach, Dr. Foster prioritizes strong patient connections built on communication, trust, and understanding.

“My decision to become a physician stemmed from my desire to provide a meaningful service that positively impacts people’s lives,” said Dr. Foster. “Cardiothoracic surgery allows me to make a significant difference in patients’ well-being, and I’m grateful to be part of a field where many conditions can be effectively treated with excellent outcomes.”

Dr. Foster joins SGMC Health after spending the past 20 years at Atrium Health Navicent in Macon, where he built a respected career in cardiothoracic surgery. He earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Georgia and completed his residency in general surgery at Mercer University Medical Center of Central Georgia. He went on to complete a fellowship in cardiothoracic surgery at the Medical University of South Carolina. Dr. Foster is board-certified in thoracic and cardiac surgery by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery.

Dr. Foster shared his excitement about joining SGMC Health and becoming part of the Valdosta community. “Working with the team at SGMC Health aligns perfectly with my commitment to growth, patient care, and collaboration,” he said. “I’m looking forward to settling in Valdosta and serving patients close to home.”

Outside of medicine, Dr. Foster enjoys hunting, fishing, and racing cars. He has been married to his wife, Kelly, for 28 years, and together they have two children.

With the addition of Dr. Foster, SGMC Health continues to strengthen its Heart & Vascular services, ensuring patients have access to high-quality, specialized care close to home.

SGMC Health stands as the region’s only Level I Emergency Cardiac Care Center and the sole hospital in South Georgia offering an open-heart surgery program, a dedicated structural heart center, and a comprehensive cardiac electrophysiology program. The health system provides a complete continuum of cardiovascular services—from urgent interventions to long-term management of chronic heart conditions—focused on both cutting-edge technology and exceptional patient outcomes.

For more information about SGMC Health’s Heart & Vascular services, visit health.sgmc.org/heart-care.