Northwest Health releases community benefit report

Springdale-based health system Northwest Health provided a total community benefit of more than $436 million in 2024, according to a new report.

The company recently released its annual Community Benefit Report that shows it saw 611,300 patients across its network of physician clinics and other outpatient care sites. Its emergency departments had 84,300 patients.

Northwest Health provided $191 million in charity and uncompensated care and provided resources to help patients in need receive medications and medical support devices, the report noted. The company supported the annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter Drive for Northwest Arkansas Food Bank and The Manna Center. It contributed to organizations such as Community Blood Center of the Ozarks, Dress for Success Northwest Arkansas, and Single Parent Scholarship Fund of Northwest Arkansas.

“Our work to grow and enhance the medical services we provide is ongoing, as we continuously improve our safety and quality and support access to health care for our community,” said Juli McWhorter, administrative leader of Northwest Health, CEO of Northwest Medical Center – Willow Creek Women’s Hospital and Northwest Health Physicians’ Specialty Hospital. “From providing care to our most vulnerable residents to supporting local charitable organizations, we are proud to make an impact on the health, well-being and quality of life in Northwest Arkansas.”

According to the report, Northwest Health improved access to specialized care by recruiting a breast surgical oncologist, orthopedic and spine surgeon, and cardiovascular thoracic surgeons. It’s also recruited five new primary care providers. It has 20 beds dedicated to the treatment of patients 55 and older, and it has opened an intensive outpatient program.

“We are strategically applying our resources to help area residents have access to the care they need close to home,” McWhorter said. “These investments, along with our outstanding medical staff and employees, support our delivery of high-quality medical care and services for a positive patient experience.”

The health system’s payroll is $190 million, and in 2024, it paid $15 million in taxes.