Unity Health - Wellness Today

[1967–1977] White County Memorial Hospital experienced continual growth from the day it opened. Occupancy in 1968 averaged 80 percent for the year. In 1969 when the hospital experienced more than 100 percent occupancy, patients were placed in the hallways. 1967 1977 EARLY YEARS EXPANSIONS, INNOVATIONS AND CLASSIFICATION In the years between 1967 and 2000, White County Medical Center went through seven renovations and expansions. The eighth project and the largest in WCMC history began Aug. 21, 2002. A new south tower and entrance were added, changing the entire appearance of the hospital. WCMC acquires Central Arkansas Hospital Searcy became the smallest community in the state to have two hospitals. The combined forces opened opportunities for White County Medical Center to offer additional services. Cancer Center of Excellence In 2011, the Cancer Center of Excellence was completed with help from a White County Medical Foundation campaign. PAST PROJECTS LEAD TO PRESENT SUCCESS 1920 1930s 2011 1983 2005 Wakenight Sanitarium The history of Unity Health began many years before its doors were open to the public in January of 1967. The first hospital to precede all others in White County was the Wakenight Sanitarium owned and founded by Mrs. O.C. Wakenight in 1920. Harrison Hospital Following the Wakenight Sanitarium in the 1930s, Harrison Hospital, opened by Dr. A.G. Harrison, began to serve patients. WCMH First 10 Years After another set of elections was held in 1969 and in 1971, construction began on a third floor of the hospital and increased capacity to 124 beds, giving the facility even greater opportunity to prosper. Renovations The early 1980s brought both success and trying times as a renovation occurred, including a new critical care unit and emergency room expansion. Unity Health Wellness Today 4 WINTER 2017

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