Northwest Health Reports on its Care for Northwest Arkansas Community
4/7/2026
Total impact exceeded $453 million
SPRINGDALE, Ark. (April 8, 2026) — At more than 667,000 patient encounters last year, Northwest Health delivered on its commitment to provide quality healthcare for the Northwest Arkansas community. The health system’s 2025 Community Benefit Report shows care extended well beyond the hospital and clinics, contributing more than $453 million to the region through charity/uncompensated care provided, capital dollars reinvested in services and facilities, employee payroll, charitable projects and payment of more than $10 million in taxes supporting local schools and civic resources.
The health system increased access to care across Northwest Arkansas by recruiting physicians and advanced practice providers in key specialties, including orthopedics, primary care and general surgery, strengthening the availability of care for patients in the community.
“We are here to care for our patients and the place we all call home,” said Juli McWhorter, chief executive officer of Northwest Medical Center — Bentonville. “Health is central to quality of life, and we offer advanced medical services here in Northwest Arkansas to make it easy to access the care you need. It’s our privilege to transform lives every day, helping patients manage their health at every stage of life.”
Area families grew with the help of Northwest Medical Center - Bentonville and Willow Creek Women’s Hospital as more than 2,700 babies were delivered in 2025. To meet the growing needs of women and families in the region, Northwest Health recruited five OB/GYN physicians, three advanced practice providers and a gynecologic surgeon. The health system also opened a new OB/GYN clinic in Springdale.
Emergency medicine is a critical service, with more than 82,000 visits to the emergency room at Northwest Health and the affiliated standalone emergency rooms – Northwest Health Emergency Department Bentonville and Northwest Health Emergency Department Fayetteville. Life-saving medically necessary care was provided to all patients, regardless of their ability to pay, with more than $193 million in charity and uncompensated care in 2025.
The health system and its employees also support local organizations that make a difference, especially those addressing social determinants of health. Through service projects such as the annual Jars of Love Peanut Butter drive for Northwest Arkansas Food Bank and The Manna Center and contributions to charitable organizations such as Peace at Home Family Shelter and Saving Grace, Northwest Health gives back to the community throughout the year.
Payroll of more than $193 million supports the delivery of around-the-clock care by a team of physicians, nurses and support staff, all passionate about serving patients. Their compassion and skills make a difference in the lives of neighbors, friends and the larger community.
“We have immense gratitude for every member of our team, and we are investing in resources to support them in their work and a culture that attracts and retains these talented people,” said Kory Browning, chief executive officer of Northwest Medical Center — Springdale. “This team is passionate about delivering quality care to those who are counting on us. We have an unwavering commitment to patient safety, clinical excellence, and doing the right thing every day for those who trust us with their care.”
Support for the future healthcare workforce includes training the next generation of medical professionals. The Springdale hospital is a clinical rotation site for the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences family medicine residency program. The hospital also provides a registered nurse residency program to help newly graduated RNs transition to independent practice with competence and confidence.
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