Healthcare Evolution in Northwest Arkansas: Then and Now
A Decade of Progress
Eric Pianalto, President of Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas, has observed significant growth in healthcare services in the region over the past decade. This growth has been critical in addressing the ever-evolving healthcare challenges faced by the rapidly expanding population of Northwest Arkansas.
Mercy’s Role in COVID-19 Pandemic Response
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas played a pivotal role in caring for patients diagnosed with the virus. The hospital celebrated Health Care Week in 2021 by recognizing the dedication and sacrifices of healthcare workers. This included a day of remembrance honoring patients who lost their lives to COVID-19 and marking the hospital’s efforts to reconfigure space dedicated to COVID-19 patients as the number of cases decreased.
Expanding Medical Education and Research
The region has also seen significant strides in medical education and research. The Alice L. Walton School of Medicine in Bentonville and the Whole Health Institute are projected to be key contributors to making Northwest Arkansas a healthcare destination. The region is addressing its healthcare challenges through innovation, with institutions like Washington Regional Medical System and the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) working to improve healthcare access.
Revolutionizing Home Healthcare
One pioneering healthcare provider, Basis Health, relocated to Bentonville in 2021. This healthcare provider focuses on delivering high-quality medical care directly to the homes of the elderly and chronically ill. Basis Health is at the forefront of shifting healthcare to a preventative, patient-centered model, utilizing cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and predictive modeling to ensure timely interventions and prevent unnecessary hospital visits.
