Hospital CEO: Last few years have been marked by meeting challenges

The Adair County Memorial Hospital Foundation held its 36th annual Tour of Trees and the accompanying Holiday Luncheon Saturday, Dec. 2 at the Warren Cultural Center.

The main floor and upstairs of the local landmark were lined with finely-decorated trees featuring a vast variety of color and theme, decorated by businesses, organizations and individuals from around the Adair County area.

The hospital foundation supports Adair County Health System by purchasing equipment, funding construction and renovation projects, supporting special initiatives, and much more. In short, the Foundation allows ACHS to do many things that wouldn’t otherwise be possible.

Carol Woosley, who gave the introduction at this year’s Holiday Luncheon, said the group tries to always put their “funds to good use.”

ACHS CEO Catherine Hillestad gave a report to those gathered round intricately decorated tables for a meal of ham balls, potatoes and green bean casserole, served by hospital staff, that was capped off by red velvet cupcakes.

Hillestad gave the entire staff credit for all of the good things the health system has been able to accomplish this year.

“In the time I’ve had the privilege of working at ACHS, I’ve continued to be inspired by the dedication of our employees,” said Hillestad, who began in July 2021. “I also continue to be inspired by the high level of engagement and support of the Auxiliary, the board members, the ACHS Foundation, and the community.”

Hillestad went on to say that Adair County is “truly a special place” because of the community support it gives ACHS. She described the last couple of years as challenging ones, however the “amazing team” at ACHS “continues to show up to provide the highest quality of care for each of our patients every single day.”

Hillestad then gave a statement regarding the building of a Greater Regional Health clinic in Greenfield, which is set to open later this winter or early spring.

“While we wish they were not [building a clinic], as it is an unnecessary addition, we also understand competition is a part of life. Basic business and economic theory demonstrate that when organizations have competition, it pushes them to have higher quality, greater variety and more innovation,” Hillestad said. “As a team, we want to compete with others in a way that brings out the best in us and everybody who is involved. It’s about challenging ourselves, pushing those around us, and allowing our commitment, skill, and the motivation of others to bring out the best in us and tap into our next potential. Positive competition is about growth, grit and taking our team to the next level. That’s exactly what we’ll focus on doing.”

Hillestad said she and the rest of the executive team at Adair County Health System are committed to see that growth through to completion through nuturing and enhancing various service lines that exist and will exist in the future through their services.

In early September, Adair County Health System leadership held a groundbreaking for the Master Facilities Plan, which is a three-phase $17.5 million project to enhance existing facilities and services.

Holiday Luncheon proceeds have gone to various projects through the years. Hillestad said this year’s proceeds will go to updating inpatient rooms.