A COMMUNITY’S COMMITMENT TO HEALTH: COLLABORATIVE CARE FOR A STRONGER FUTURE Decatur County Memorial Hospital (DCMH) has been a cornerstone of health and wellness in southeastern Indiana for over a century. Beyond providing essential medical care, DCMH actively collaborates with local employers, schools, and leaders to address the community’s unique health needs. Recognizing the rising prevalence of health issues such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer, and obesity, DCMH initiated partnerships with organizations like the Greensburg Community Schools, the county government, and local manufacturers. These collaborations enable DCMH to provide on-site health screenings, wellness programs, and preventive care services directly at workplaces and schools, ensuring accessible care for the community. By educating children and their families about healthy eating, physical activity, and the importance of regular medical check-ups, DCMH fosters long-term habits that reduce health risks over time. This proactive approach addresses health needs before conditions escalate to emergencies and positively impacts the community’s overall health. Employees expressed satisfaction with their active involvement in health initiatives, while employers observed reduced healthcare costs. Tom Hunter, Greensburg Community Schools Superintendent, said,“By DCMH bringing health services directly to our campuses, we’ve seen a significant improvement in staff well-being. This proactive approach fosters a culture of wellness that benefits everyone. This collaborative effort has also played a role in reducing healthcare expenses for our corporation and staff.” In 2024, DCMH participated in over 72 community events and provided more than 4,700 health screenings—free of charge. The annual Healthy Fair, DCMH’s largest screening event, offers free screenings, educational opportunities, community engagement, and fosters a healthier community by bringing resources together in one location. DCMH also hosted the Women’s Health Expo and Men’s Health Tailgate, attracting a record-breaking number of participants interested in preventative screenings.These events provided attendees free health assessments, educational resources, and wellness initiatives tailored to their health needs. In addition to these events, DCMH provided over 5,000 community volunteer hours in 2024, demonstrating a strong commitment to community engagement and support.These initiatives have improved health outcomes and stabilized healthcare costs, transforming DCMH from a traditional care provider into a proactive, community-driven health leader. Decatur County now enjoys a healthcare partner and a better quality of life, thanks to DCMH’s innovative partnerships and commitment to community well-being. When a small town unites to focus on health, the benefits extend far beyond hospital walls.
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