This month the WRMC Medical Complex ER celebrates the one-year anniversary of providing care. The ER opened to offer 24/7 access to emergency medical care in the Sharp County area, and since June 2014, approximately ten thousand patients have entered through the ER doors seeking medical care. The facility has also grown in employment, adding to the nursing, radiology, laboratory, and clerical staff in the transition to 24/7 operations.
While not new to healthcare, the stand-alone ER at the WRMC Medical Complex was the first licensed in Arkansas. Although another satellite ER has opened in northwest Arkansas this year, the concept is still new to many residents. Sharp County residents have demonstrated a progressive, forward thinking attitude and embraced the ER, and its success is measured by the patients of all ages who receive the care they need locally.
“It is gratifying to be approached by residents who shake our hands and thank us for providing 24/7 ER services,” said Tabitha Breshears-Krueger, RN, ER Clinical Manager. “We are proud of the team of professionals working at our facility. When the ER is busy, or when a critically ill patient is in our care, employees from every part of the building come together to help each other. We are one team caring for this community.” Breshears-Krueger also expressed her appreciation to law enforcement, emergency medical transportation and the medical community of their support and encouragement.
The WRMC Medical Complex ER provides Physician directed care with 24/7 access to diagnostic laboratory, and imaging. The ER is a level III trauma facility, the same designation as White River Medical Center’s Emergency Department. The ER is also a part of the AR SAVES stroke care network.
“The community response to the WRMC Medical Complex ER has exceeded our expectations and projections,” said Gary L. Bebow, WRHS CEO. “We are appreciative of the support from the community and look forward to continuing our mission of providing quality medical care and improving the health of Sharp county and communities throughout our service area”
The WRMC Medical Complex ER team and employees throughout the Medical Complex have a passion for helping others outside of work as well. Led by the ER Team, Medical Complex employees collected more than 200 coats with local law enforcement for distribution to needy families by a local church. This summer the team will be distributing fans to elderly residents without air-conditioning. ER Nurse Eva Gaskins is volunteering for the fourth summer at Life Strides Hippotherapy equestrian camp for special needs children, and many other WRMC Medical Complex employees volunteer for organizations, demonstrating their professional and personal commitment to serving others.
