Ozarks Healthcare celebrates 65 Years of Service to Community; earns Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval for Accreditation

The month of March marks a significant milestone for Ozarks Healthcare as the health system commemorates its 65th anniversary since opening its doors as West Plains Memorial Hospital in 1959. Originally a modest institution, the hospital has grown into a cornerstone of the community, serving as an economic staple and a beacon of healthcare excellence in the region.

Dr. Marvin Fowler, one of the original physicians who practiced at Ozarks Healthcare (then West Plains Memorial Hospital), recently reflected on the journey from its humble beginnings to its current state-of-the-art facilities.

"I remember having a lot of pride when I walked into the hospital the first time,” Fowler, now 96 years old, said. “It seemed so new and clean, and we had a nice staff of people.”

Since its opening in 1959, Ozarks Healthcare has played a vital role in the local economy, creating jobs, driving business growth, and attracting healthcare professionals to the area. The health system’s presence has stimulated economic activity in various sectors, from retail and hospitality to real estate and construction, contributing to the overall prosperity of West Plains and its surrounding areas.

Ozarks Healthcare’s growth has been significant, evolving from a 50-bed structure to a comprehensive healthcare system that serves patients from across the region. Fowler's contributions, along with those of his colleagues, have been instrumental in shaping the health system's trajectory over the decades.

"I've always loved this community,” Fowler said. “I enjoy interacting with the people in the community. The progression of the hospital through the years has just been amazing."

Over the years, Ozarks Healthcare has continually expanded its services and technology to meet the evolving needs of the community. From the introduction of modern medical advancements to the recruitment of specialized physicians, the health system has remained committed to providing high-quality care close to home.

The health system recently earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care.

Ozarks Healthcare underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite review earlier this year. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with standards spanning several areas including emergency management, infection prevention, performance improvement, and leadership. 

The Joint Commission’s standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts, and patients. They are informed by scientific literature and expert consensus to help healthcare organizations measure, assess and improve performance. The surveyors also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

“We are proud to celebrate Ozarks Healthcare's 65th anniversary as a testament to our unwavering dedication to serving the community,” Tom Keller, Ozarks Healthcare President and CEO, said. “Our recent accreditation from the Joint Commission reaffirms our commitment to excellence in healthcare and patient safety. We look forward to continuing to serve our community for many years to come."

Within the past few years, the health system has brought the latest of current medical technology to better serve its patients, including Mako SmartRobotics™ for personalized surgical experiences and Intuitive Surgical’s Ion Endoluminal Robotic Bronchoscopy Platform for respiratory care. With numerous advantages, including reduced invasiveness and shorter durations for total knee, total hip, and partial knee procedures, Mako technology is at the forefront of enhancing surgical outcomes. Ion technology enhances the care of patients with lung abnormalities, detects lung cancer earlier, improves outcomes, and provides surgeons with more reach and precision.

"The present administration has done such a good job of bringing in so many specialists,” Fowler said. “And the growth in the hospital seems like every decade we have another expansion. And this last one was just magnificent. They've really done such a wonderful job."

As part of its largest expansion to date, Ozarks Healthcare proudly introduced Grill 59, a dining establishment named in homage to its founding year in 1959. More than just a culinary addition, Grill 59 represents a celebration of the health system’s rich history and its strong tie to the community. Grill 59 offers visitors a dining experience that reflects the health system’s commitment to excellence in all aspects of service. Whether grabbing a quick bite between appointments or enjoying a leisurely meal with loved ones, visitors and staff can savor delicious dishes in a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.

As Ozarks Healthcare celebrates its 65th anniversary, it honors its rich history while embracing the opportunities that lie ahead. With a commitment to excellence and a deep-rooted connection to the community, the health system looks forward to continuing its mission of improving the health of all those it serves.

Ozarks Healthcare is a not-for-profit health system that serves more than 160,000 residents across south-central Missouri and northern Arkansas. With its main campus residing in West Plains, Missouri, the health system offers a full spectrum of healthcare for all ages through its 114-bed hospital, behavioral health, therapies, pharmacies, rehabilitation, and home care services, along with specialty and family medicine clinics. Ozarks Healthcare has rural locations across an eight-county service area and is accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Health Care Organizations.

Ozarks Healthcare recently earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Accreditation by demonstrating continuous compliance with its performance standards. The Gold Seal is a symbol of quality that reflects a health care organization’s commitment to providing safe and quality patient care.