On Sunday, December 3, the merger between Drew Memorial Health Systems and Baptist Health became official. On Monday, December 4, an official ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at 10 a.m. to formally announce that what was formally known as Drew Memorial Hospital would now be known as Baptist Health Medical Center-Drew County.
Chief Executive Officer of Baptist Health Troy Wells, opened the ceremony by addressing the large crowd that gathered in front of the hospital for the momentous occasion.
“We are humbled and honored to have you all here today,” Wells said. “Today is historic as we bring together and celebrate two historic institutions in Baptist Health and Drew Memorial Health Systems. This is just an awesome day for us all.”
Wells then introduced several members of Baptist’s leadership, several members of the Board of Trustees, and several local dignitaries.
“I want to say thank you and recognize the employees of the former Drew Memorial, who are now part of the Baptist Health family,” Wells added. “Thank you for the work that you’ve done. Thank you for your commitment to your community and to this part of the state, and thank you for joining Baptist Health.”
Drew County Judge Jessie Griffin was next to speak.
“This is another landmark for Drew County,” Griffin said. “We are now welcoming Baptist Health to be a part of our family here in Drew County. We look forward to our relationship to continue our services in Drew County. This moment is due to a large number of people doing what needs to be done to accomplish what is best for Drew County. As with anything, there will be some pros and cons no matter what we do, but it is a step forward and a step in the right direction for our hospital, our county, and the people of southeast Arkansas.”
“I’m excited to be here,” Dr. James Atkins said. “I’m excited to celebrate the grand opening of Baptist Health Medical Center-Drew County. It’s a beginning and a new era of health care in Monticello and Drew County that will positively impact the people of southeast Arkansas. This merger will allow our hospital more opportunities to grow and expand. In combining our strengths, we amplify our ability to meet the evolving needs of our community.”
Next to the podium was Monticello Mayor Jason Akers.
“I want to thank Baptist. Since 1921, they have provided services to the citizens of the state of Arkansas. They are the largest non-profit hospital, employing roughly 11,000 people,” Akers stated. “We are a close-knit community. We take care of each other. We argue from time to time, but we are one big family and we are excited to have Baptist here. We have an obligation as Monticellonians to support this hospital, they’ve come in and done great things, and it is our responsibility as citizens of this town and county to return that favor and show that we are worth the investment.”
Following Mayor Akers, former Chief Executive Officer of DMHS, and current President of BHMCDC, Scott Barrilleaux took his place at the podium.
“First and foremost, I want to thank you all for being here, and I want to echo what the mayor said,” Barrilleaux said. “It is a wonderful look from this microphone to see so many faces and familiar faces. This day is a huge milestone for our hospital. The road to this grand opening has been one of dedication, hard work, and collaboration. Countless hours have been invested by a team of individuals who share a common goal to create a healthier community through Christian compassion and innovative services for the people of South Arkansas. Change, especially in the realm of healthcare, can be met with uncertainty. However, I have no doubt that we will be stronger than ever before. Baptist Health will allow us to strengthen our position as the hub for healthcare in south Arkansas, which has been a goal of ours for over nine and a half years. Lastly, I would like to thank each and every person who played a role in making this a reality, along with our hospital’s incredible staff who continue to show up every day and provide compassionate care to our patients. Thank you all for supporting our hospital over the years, and we are excited to serve you as Baptist Health Medical Center-Drew County. Thank you!”
Following Barrilleaux, Glenda Nichols with the Drew County Chamber of Commerce gave a brief welcome into Monticello and Drew County for Baptist. Ryan Copico followed with an invocation to bless the merger and new business relationship.
After the invocation, Wells held a countdown, which led to new signage being revealed on the building. Immediately following this, the ribbon was officially cut, and a new era of healthcare under Baptist Health was ushered into Monticello and Drew County.
Following the ribbon cutting, a reception was held in the Surgical Center for all to attend.
