EL DORADO, Ark. – Baptist Health formally welcomed South Arkansas Regional Hospital in El Dorado into its system during a ribbon-cutting ceremony held Monday, June 15. The event was attended by hospital leaders and community dignitaries.

Baptist Health officially assumed hospital operations on Sunday, June 14.

Now operating as Baptist Health Medical Center-El Dorado, the 151-bed facility is the 13th hospital in the Baptist Health system. The new identity was revealed through updated signage during the celebration. The hospital continues to offer extensive inpatient and outpatient care, specializing in cardiology, orthopedics, obstetrics and emergency services with a dedicated team of approximately 400 staff members.

Troy Wells, Baptist Health’s president and CEO, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership, emphasizing a shared commitment to delivering high-quality health care to the residents of El Dorado and the surrounding region.

"Today marks a historic day for El Dorado and Baptist Health,” Wells said. “By officially dedicating Baptist Health Medical Center-El Dorado, we are fulfilling our promise to secure the long-term stability of care for this vital community and committing our faith-based, Christian healing ministry to the people of South Arkansas."

Danna Taylor, president of Baptist Health Medical Center-El Dorado, added that joining forces with Baptist Health will enhance the level of care local patients expect.

"This day is a huge milestone for our hospital,” Taylor said. “The road to today has been one of dedication, hard work and collaboration to create a healthier community for the people of South Arkansas. I have no doubt that we will be stronger than ever before, and Baptist Health will strengthen our position as the hub for health care for Union County and surrounding communities."

The transition follows an acquisition process first announced in March, designed to ensure operational stability and a seamless experience for patients and caregivers.