Mercy Hospital Fort Smith

Mercy Hospital Fort Smith is a prominent nonprofit healthcare facility located in Fort Smith, Arkansas. It is part of the Mercy Health System, a large Catholic health organization operating across the United States.

History

The hospital's origins date back to the arrival of the Sisters of Mercy in Fort Smith in 1853. Initially, the Sisters established educational institutions but soon transitioned into healthcare during the Civil War by converting schools into makeshift hospitals for wounded soldiers. This early healthcare ministry led to the establishment of St. Edward's Infirmary in 1905, which later evolved into Mercy Hospital Fort Smith[2][5].

Over the years, Mercy Hospital Fort Smith has grown significantly, expanding its services and facilities to meet the healthcare needs of the River Valley community. In 2012, the hospital was renamed as part of a broader effort by Mercy Health System to unify its facilities under a common name, enhancing brand recognition and community connection[2].

Facilities and Services

Mercy Hospital Fort Smith is a 348-bed facility, offering comprehensive healthcare services across various specialties. It is renowned for having the area’s only Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and is home to the first Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald House in Arkansas, which opened in fall 2021[1].

The hospital provides advanced medical care, including emergency services, cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, and robotic surgery. Recent technological advancements include the implementation of the GE Omni Legend PET/CT scanner and the Mako Smart Robotics Joint Replacement Surgery[1].

Expansion and Growth

Mercy Hospital Fort Smith continues to invest in its infrastructure and services. An ongoing expansion project includes enlarging the emergency department and intensive care unit, expected to be completed by spring 2025. This expansion will increase the ED from 29 to 50 rooms and boost ICU capacity from 38 to 64 beds, facilitating about 20,000 additional patient visits annually[1].

Community Impact

Mercy Hospital Fort Smith plays a vital role in the local healthcare landscape, serving over 400,000 residents in 13 counties. It operates more than 60 outpatient facilities and clinics, ensuring accessible healthcare for the community[5]. The hospital's commitment to care extends beyond medical services, with efforts focused on community health improvement and support for critical access hospitals in surrounding areas[4].

Mercy Health Foundation Fort Smith supports the hospital's mission by providing philanthropic support for life-saving equipment, patient programs, and capital projects. The foundation has funded significant initiatives, including scholarships for healthcare careers and diagnostics for cancer patients[4].