Bates County News

Tuesday, May 12, 2026

National Hospital Week

 As part of National Hospital Week, Bates County Memorial Hospital is recognizing the employees who help make BCMH “The Heart of Our Community” through their dedication to patients, coworkers, and the communities they serve across Bates County.

Observed nationally each May, Hospital Week celebrates the important role hospitals and healthcare workers play in supporting the health and wellbeing of their communities. This year’s theme at BCMH focuses on the many ways employees serve both inside the hospital and beyond its walls.

Throughout the week, BCMH is sharing employee stories that reflect the personal connections, purpose, and commitment behind healthcare careers in a rural community.

For many healthcare professionals, that calling begins early in life.

“For me, pursuing a career in healthcare was a personal calling,” said Doncella Liggins, RHIT, Director of Health Information Management at BCMH. “Both my mother and grandmother worked in the field, and their dedication and passion served as a strong influence on my decision to work in healthcare.”

Harris added that BCMH’s role within Bates County is something he values personally.

For nurses working in rural healthcare, relationships with patients and families often become one of the most rewarding parts of the job.

Ann Donohue, RN, said those personal relationships are part of what makes serving at BCMH unique.

BCMH officials say those stories reflect the heart of rural healthcare and the many individuals who help support patient care each day.

 “Many of the BATES COUNTY MEMORIAL HOSPITAL  employees serve the community long after their workday ends,” Weaver said. “That spirit of service is part of what makes BCMH special.”

National Hospital Week will be celebrated May 10-16, 2026.