History ~ Future Plans ~ Benefits to the Community

HISTORY OF PAST GENERATIONS AT WEST HOLT MEDICAL SERVICES

West Holt Medical Services (WHMS) is a testimony to the spirit and character of people in the area for many past generations.

TIMELINE

The first hospital was opened in February of 1952 and named Atkinson Memorial Hospital. A group of young wives of veterans who had returned from World War II, called the Atkinson Veterans Wives (AVW) Club, were instrumental in getting the project going. They felt that their young families needed a good hospital nearby. Committees were formed, a fund drive was initiated and the total community became involved. They raised the money from individuals and civic organizations, which amounted to over 1/2 of the total cost of the facility and was deeded to and under the management of the Franciscan Sisters of Chicago.

 In 1957, an addition was planned and a campaign was launched; again the area residents helped with part of the cost until it was finished.

In 1972, the Franciscan Sisters of Chicago ceased operation of the hospital and the hospital advisory board incorporated as the West Holt Memorial Hospital Association, Inc.

In 1977, another hospital was built in Atkinson and given a new name, West Holt Memorial Hospital. Like the first hospital, it too received wide support throughout the West Holt area. With the help of donors sponsoring rooms or areas of the new building the projected was completed. A heliport was constructed on land donated by the Dvorak Brothers. A new outpatient clinic adjoining West Holt Memorial Hospital was also completed.

In March 2006 , the hospital completed projects including business office renovation/expansion, renovation/expansion of the Emergency Room, and enlarging the radiology area to accommodate new equipment.

THE FUTURE FOR GENERATIONS TO COME

Everyday the need arises for neighbors to join together to keep our hospital, clinics, equipment and services up-to-date. WHMS Board of Directors and WHMS Foundation Board ask for your help by providing philanthropic support. Foundation staff and Board members continue to seek private major gifts, seek grants from federal, state and national foundations, seek giving from all employees, medical staff, board members and volunteers. Memorial gift opportunities are available and area residents are encouraged to consider the WHMS long-range needs by donating through estate planning. If you are committed to quality health care and a strong local economy, please become involved as a volunteer and/or donor for the benefit of our children and grandchildren in North Central Nebraska.

FUTURE PLANS FOR WEST HOLT MEDICAL SERVICES

Completed in January 2012

• Renovation of Patient Rooms in hospital*

• Renovation of Minor Procedure Room in hospital

• Renovation of Nurses Station* in hospital

• Security Doors in hospital*

Targeted for completion in 2012

• Telephone System for hospital, Atkinson clinic, Pharmacy, and Foundation

• Chemistry Analyzer for hospital

• Purchase a hospital van

Targeted for completion in 2013

• Electronic Medical Records for hospital and clinics*

• Renovation of Clinic Receptionist Area in Atkinson*

Ongoing Needs

• Educational Funds  for Staff Development

• Scholarships for individuals enrolled in a college pursuing a degree in the medical field

• Equipment Improvements and additions

*These updates and renovations are required  under Federal regulations i.e. HIPPA, ARRA

HOW WHMS BENEFITS YOUR COMMUNITY

Everyone benefits from services and programs provided by WHMS whether you are a resident of North Central Nebraska or a visitor.  We consider everyone that needs our services as our partners.  Partners work with WHMS in providing the healthcare excellence that the area deserves and has come to expect. Many individuals and families will be touched by the care provided and everyone is affected from an economic standpoint because WHMS is one of the largest employers in the area. With a current payroll of more than $2.5 to $3 million annually, WHMS has an economic impact in the area of approximately 18 million dollars a year.

West Holt Medical Services is one of the  areas important assets in terms of retaining businesses and industries as well as attracting new businesses, industries and residents.

West Holt Medical Services funds a designated amount of charity care on an annual basis to help support medical needs of the underprivileged in our area.        

Contact the Foundation Director

Monique Johnson

Phone: (402) 925-2811, ext. 3701