We care — deeply
When a doctor recommends a test or procedure and insurance says no, we feel the same frustration you do. We also worry about changes to Medicare and Medicaid and how they could affect the most vulnerable in our community.
“I often help patients make difficult decisions about their care; decisions made even harder when transportation, cost, or other barriers make it impossible to travel. I worry about what will happen if rural hospitals keep disappearing. Where will patients go when they need us most?”
— Dr. William Joyce, Jr., General Surgeon and Chief of Staff, BCMH
Access to care is everything
Not every rural town is as fortunate as Bates County to have a hospital nearby. Across Missouri, small hospitals close each year, leaving residents to travel hours for even basic care.
“I’ve seen firsthand what happens when a community loses its hospital. My own hometown went through it. People delay or skip treatment because it’s just too far. That’s why keeping care local matters so much.”
— Terri Floyd, CFO
We offer more than you might think
From advanced imaging and lab work to specialty clinics and same-day surgeries, a lot of care is available close to home. When higher-level care is needed, we connect patients quickly and help coordinate the process.
“I feel this is the people’s hospital. When the people of Bates County require medical services, we want them to think of BCMH first.”
— Rock Marquardt, BCMH Board Member
Recruiting providers to rural areas isn’t easy
We’re not just filling today’s needs — we’re investing in tomorrow’s.
“Rural patients deserve the same quality of care as anyone else — and we can only provide it if we have the people to deliver it. That’s why we mentor students and encourage local talent to pursue careers in medicine, nursing, and allied health. Several of our former employees are now in medical school thanks to guidance from our physicians.”
— Dr. James Miller, Medical Director of Family Care Clinics, BCMH
Rural doesn’t mean less
At BCMH, our small size and hometown culture make care easier and more personal for patients.
“People sometimes assume that a rural hospital is ‘less’ than a big-city facility. Being smaller means everything is closer, with less walking, less waiting, and more personal attention. We may not have the square footage of an urban medical center, but what we do have is expert care delivered with a hometown touch.”
— Jennifer Klinksick, RN, Chief Nursing Officer
The future of rural healthcare is never guaranteed
Even strong hospitals like ours face economic, regulatory, and workforce challenges. That’s why we work every day to maintain services, build relationships with state leaders, and find creative ways to keep care local.
“Rural hospitals face more challenges than ever, but what doesn’t change is their importance. A hospital like ours is essential for health care and a cornerstone of our community’s economy and future.”
— Greg Weaver, CEO
BCMH has been here for 65 years, and with your trust and support, we’ll be here for generations to come. This is our home, too, and your health will always be our priority.
Learn more about rural healthcare at bcmhospital.com/about-rural-healthcare.
