According to a recent Iowa Hospital Association (IHA) study, Stewart Memorial Community Hospital (SMCH) in Lake City contributed over $31 million to the local economy in 2023. CEO Linn Block says, “This hospital is more than just bricks and mortar; it’s the backbone of our local economy. As the largest employer in Calhoun County, we circulate millions of dollars back into our community, supporting local businesses, homes, and education.” IHA’s data shows the hospital generated 464 jobs with a payroll and benefits tally of $19.6 million. Block notes SMCH’s contributions extend beyond financial impacts. The hospital sponsors local events, school activities, non-profit fundraisers, and more. They also host wellness initiatives, such as blood drives, monthly clinics, and walk-in flu shot clinics. The hospital even supports local events like the SMCH Two-Mile Fun Run and Lake City Western Days Rodeo. In addition to the hospital’s economic impact, they also provided nearly a quarter-million dollars in charity care, which covered 110 patients who could not afford the cost of necessary medical procedures. A link to IHA’s full breakdown of hospitals’ economic impact throughout the state is included with this story on our website. Carroll Broadcasting will bring you more from other local healthcare facilities in upcoming newscasts.
