For pre-formatted natality & mortality data please see Vital Statistics Reports (VSR).

For other health data resources please see the Health Data & Info section.

Health Care
Dougherty County had 5.3 licensed nursing home beds per 100 persons in 1999, compared with the state average of 5.5 per 100 persons. In 1999, the number of physicians in the county per 10,000 persons was 25.6, compared to the state average of 19.3. For more community indicators, please go to OASIS .

History*

Dougherty County was created in 1853 from part of Baker County. Georgia's 102nd county was named for Charles Dougherty of Athens, a judge of the Western Circuit and a popular advocate of states' rights.

The only incorporated community in the county is the county seat of Albany. The city is named for the New York State capital.

Radium Springs is located within the county just south of Albany. The springs are the largest in Georgia, discharging 70,000 gallons of 68 degree water each minute. The springs received its current name in 1925 when tested spring water was found to contain traces of radium isotopes. During the 1920s, a club casino was operated on the banks of the spring. The casino has been restored and is currently operated as a restaurant.