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Our History
Clara Barton Hospital - A Heritage In Healthcare
The original Hoisington Lutheran Hospital was dedicated in February, 1950, with four doctors on staff. The hospital was leased by the city to the Lutheran Hospital Association, who furnished and maintained the hospital. I.C. Walter was the first full-time administrator, serving from 1951 until 1957.
A new addition in 1977 provided space for a Physical Therapy Department and a solarium for use by visitors and patients. In 1982, a newly renovated wing of the hospital housed the Family Recovery Center, a substance abuse unit. An Intensive Care Unit and Swingbed Progam were also added at this time. These additions and improvements made between 1950 and 1990, totaling $1.3 million were all funded without a dime of taxpayers money.
In 1990 the Board of Directors decided to make some drastic changes based on national economic trends in rural healthcare, particularly in rural hospitals. Instead of going on the tax roll, the most promising way of insuring a future for the hospital was deemed to be a community foundation.
A foundation was formed in 1990 and a new hospital board was elected from the foundation's membership. The foundation guarantees every member of the community and service area an opportunity for involvement. A name change reflected that the hospital serves more than one community or denomination. Clara Barton Hospital was selected and the new name. Clara Barton was the founder of the American Red Cross and her example of selfless service is still the ideal pursured by every employee of Clara Barton Hospital today.
Through the sacrifices and generousity of many, we have managed to make quality healthcare a reality for Hoisington and the surrounding region. Being part of the regional healthcare community has been an important goal, and with your help and loyalty Clara Barton Hospital can continue to provide health services that you and your family can depend on.
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