News

Posted: Sep. 4, 2024

Brittany Flippo, MD, recently joined Washington Regional’s hospital medicine group, where she provides evaluation and treatment of hospitalized patients in the medical center . Flippo earned her medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock and completed a residency in internal medicine at UAMS Medical Center.

Posted: Sep. 4, 2024

Cristina Hernandez, APRN, recently joined Washington Regional Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery Clinic , part of the Walker Heart Institute , where she provides care for patients both in the clinic and hospital. Hernandez first joined Washington Regional in March of this year. Hernandez earned a Doctor of Nursing Practice degree from Maryville University in St. Louis, Missouri, and has over a decade of nursing experience.

Posted: Sep. 3, 2024

Rhonald Searcy, MD, recently joined Washington Regional Fayetteville Family Clinic , where he provides comprehensive care for adults and children of all ages. Searcy earned his medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock. He completed a family medicine residency in Fayetteville through UAMS. Searcy has been in practice for over 15 years, previously serving patients at Washington Regional Advantage Primary Care from 2014 to 2020. Most recently, Searcy provided care ...

Posted: Sep. 3, 2024

Salik Nazir, MD, recently joined Washington Regional Cardiovascular Clinic , part of the Walker Heart Institute , where he provides comprehensive cardiology care for adults, including preventative care and care for acute and chronic conditions of the heart and vascular systems with a focus on coronary and endovascular intervention. Nazir earned his medical degree from Jinnah Sindh Medical University in Karachi, Pakistan and completed a residency in internal medicine at Reading Hospital in West Reading, ...

Posted: Sep. 3, 2024

Kacy Enloe, PA-C, recently joined Washington Regional Brain and Spine Surgery Clinic , part of the J.B. Hunt Transport Services Neuroscience Institute , where she provides care for patients with diseases and disorders of the brain, nervous system and spine. Enloe earned a Master of Health Sciences in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of Oklahoma School of Community Medicine in Tulsa and a Bachelor of Science from Northeastern State University in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. She has more than 6 ...

Posted: Aug. 23, 2024

Farees Farooq, MD, recently joined the Washington Regional Gastroenterology Clinic , located inside Fayetteville Diagnostic Clinic at 3344 N. Futrall Drive in Fayetteville, where he provides evaluation and treatment of disorders and diseases of the digestive system, as well as preventive wellness and diagnostic endoscopy procedures. Farooq has more than 20 years of experience in gastroenterology and provides advanced gastroenterology procedures including ERCP, endoscopic ultrasound, luminal stenting and...

Posted: Aug. 21, 2024

The team of cardiovascular specialists from Washington Regional’s Walker Heart Institute recently became the first in Northwest Arkansas to offer the minimally invasive Impella RP Flex, one of the world’s smallest heart pumps. The Impella RP Flex is the only FDA approved percutaneous heart pump for people with right-sided heart failure and cardiogenic shock. Cardiogenic shock is a life threatening condition that occurs when the heart is suddenly not able to pump enough blood to the brain and other organ...

Posted: Dec. 19, 2023

Drs. Ryan D. Gholson and Charla R. Morgan recently joined Washington Regional's OB hospitalist group. OB hospitalists provide care for laboring patients at Washington Regional's Women and Infants Center until their regular OB/GYN can arrive. They also deliver babies of patients who do not have a regular OB/GYN or if the patient's regular OB/GYN cannot be present. Ryan D. Gholson, MD , earned his medical degree from the University of Louisville School of Medicine in Kentucky and completed his obstetrics ...

Posted: Dec. 13, 2023

The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) recently recognized Washington Regional Medical Center for adherence to defect-free stroke care measures with the highest achievement possible, a Diamond award. Washington Regional is the only hospital in Northwest Arkansas and one of only two Joint Commission certified Comprehensive Stroke Centers in the state to be recognized in the Diamond category. The awards recognized 39 hospitals throughout the state and are based on stroke care performance as documented in...

Posted: Dec. 13, 2023

Wade Ceola, MD, FACS, FAANS, recently joined Washington Regional Brain and Spine Surgery Clinic , part of the J.B. Hunt Transport Services Neuroscience Institute. He provides surgical and therapeutic treatment for patients with diseases and disorders of the brain, nervous system and spine and specializes in complex spine cases. Dr. Ceola, originally from Springdale, earned his medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and completed a residency in neurosurgery at University of A...

Posted: Dec. 5, 2023

U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in hospital rankings and consumer advice, has named Washington Regional Medical Center as a 2024 High Performing hospital for Maternity Care (Uncomplicated Pregnancy). Washington Regional is the only hospital in Arkansas to achieve the designation, which is the highest award a hospital can earn for U.S. News’ Best Hospitals for Maternity Care. Best Hospitals for Maternity Care is an annual evaluation designed to assist expectant parents, in consultation...

Posted: Nov. 7, 2023

Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield has selected Washington Regional Medical Center as a Blue Distinction Center+ for quality and cost efficiency in spine surgery as part of the Blue Distinction Centers for Spine Surgery program. Blue Distinction Centers are nationally designated health care facilities that show a commitment to delivering higher quality patient safety and better health outcomes, based on objective measures that were developed with input from the medical community and leading accreditati...

Posted: Nov. 6, 2023

Washington Regional Medical Center earned an ‘A’ Hospital Safety Grade, the highest grade possible, in the Fall 2023 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades. The Leapfrog Group sets standards for excellence in patient safety in hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers. This national distinction recognizes Washington Regional’s achievements in protecting patients from preventable harm and error while in the hospital. “We are proud to once again achieve Leapfrog’s highest grade, which recognizes our commitment to...

Posted: Oct. 31, 2023

Ashleigh Kathiresan recently joined Washington Regional Medical System as executive director of applications and IT portfolio management. In her role, Kathiresan is responsible for maximizing the capabilities of Washington Regional’s applications and leading strategic programs and tactical projects implemented by the information technology department.   Before joining Washington Regional, Kathiresan spent 10 years at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences in Little Rock, most recently as d...

Posted: Dec. 14, 2022

The Arkansas Department of Health (ADH) recently recognized Washington Regional Medical Center for adherence to defect-free stroke care measures with the highest achievement possible, a Diamond award. Washington Regional is the only hospital in Northwest Arkansas and one of only two Comprehensive Stroke Centers in the state to be recognized in the Diamond category. The awards recognized 14 hospitals throughout the state and are based on stroke care performance as documented in the Arkansas Stroke Regist...

Posted: Dec. 12, 2022

Rob Bomstad, MS, BS, RN, Washington Regional Medical System’s vice president of joint ventures and chief executive officer of Dialysis Centers of Northwest Arkansas, LLC has been elected to serve as the next president of the Renal Healthcare Association, a national organization that supports dialysis facilities and renal health care providers. Bomstad has been in the health care industry for more than 34 years and has 22 years of experience in the kidney care industry. Dialysis Centers of Northwest Arka...

Posted: Dec. 6, 2022

Falls are the leading cause of unintentional injury and deaths for people over age 65 and a leading reason for emergency room visits in the United States. Washington Regional will hold a free falls prevention education event: Thursday, December 15 2:00 - 3:00 p.m. UAMS Schmieding Center for Senior Health and Education 2422 N. Thompson St., Ste. B in Springdale Washington Regional Trauma Education & Outreach Coordinator Brittany Berryman, RN, will share prevention tips and information about home safe...

Posted: Dec. 6, 2022

U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in hospital rankings and consumer advice, has named Washington Regional Medical Center as a 2022-2023 High Performing hospital for Maternity Care (Uncomplicated Pregnancy). This is the highest award a hospital can earn for U.S. News’ Best Hospitals for Maternity Care. The annual evaluation is designed to help expectant parents and their doctors make informed decisions about where to receive maternity care. Washington Regional earned a High Performing de...

Posted: Nov. 29, 2022

Washington Regional Urgent Care centers have received the Urgent Care Association (UCA) Accreditation designation, the highest level of distinction for an urgent care center. UCA Accreditation demonstrates an organization’s overriding commitment to safety, quality, and scope of services. The criteria include meeting standards for governance, human resources, patient care processes, quality improvement, physical environment, health record management, and patient privacy/rights/responsibilities. The stand...

Posted: Nov. 28, 2022

The Washington Regional J.B. Hunt Transport Services Cancer Support Home will offer free clinical breast exams during a breast health clinic on Saturday, December 3 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at the J.B. Hunt Transport Services Cancer Support Home at 488 E. Longview St. in Fayetteville. The clinical breast examinations are offered at no cost to the public and are performed by physicians and/or registered nurse practitioners. Space is limited and appointments are required. For more information or to schedule ...

Posted: Nov. 16, 2022

Washington Regional Medical Center has received an A, the highest grade possible, in the Fall 2022 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade. This national distinction recognizes Washington Regional’s achievements in protecting patients from preventable harm and error while in the hospital. “Earning Leapfrog’s top grade demonstrates our commitment to making safety our top priority,” said Washington Regional President and CEO Larry Shackelford. “As Northwest Arkansas’ largest health care system, we are dedicated to...

Posted: Dec. 20, 2021

Washington Regional Medical Center recently earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® for Spine Surgery, recognizing its commitment to providing safe and effective patient care for individuals seeking care for disorders and injuries of the spine. The Washington Regional Spine Program , part of the Washington Regional J.B. Hunt Transport Services Neuroscience Institute , provides patients with a multidisciplinary team of rehabilitation, interventional pain management and neurosurgery experts w...

Posted: Dec. 15, 2021

Angelica Crowley, APRN, recently joined the Washington Regional emergency department where she provides care for patients with acute illnesses and injuries. Crowley earned a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of South Alabama and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Arkansas State University. She has been a nurse practitioner for more than two years and has experience in family medicine, home health and intensive care.

Posted: Dec. 6, 2021

Washington Regional Medical Center will hold a special two-day career event for its medical-surgical unit. The event will feature same day interviews and job offers for qualified candidates. Full and part-time positions are available for: Acute Care Nurse Assistants Licensed Practical Nurses Registered Nurses The hiring event will take place in the Center for Support Services building located on the south side of the Washington Regional Medical Center Campus at 180 W. Appleby Rd in Fayetteville. Intervi...

Posted: Nov. 23, 2021

Effective Monday, November 29, 2021, Washington Regional will relocate its COVID-19 vaccination site from its Urgent Care location at 3 E. Appleby Road to the Washington Regional COVID-19 Testing Clinic, located at 3318 N. Northhills Blvd. in Fayetteville. The Washington Regional COVID-19 Testing Clinic provides: Drive-thru testing for individuals with symptoms of COVID-19 and asymptomatic individuals who have been exposed to the virus; 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., seven days a week Drive-thru first and second dos...

Posted: Nov. 19, 2021

Washington Regional Medical Center is proud to now offer the Artemis MRI/ultrasound fusion guided prostate biopsy system. MRI/ultrasound guided biopsy is the latest technology available in the detection and management of prostate cancer, and Washington Regional is the first health care system in Northwest Arkansas to use the Artemis system. Historically, finding the exact location of cancer in a prostate gland has been a challenge. Conventional prostate biopsy techniques are referred to as “blind” biops...

Posted: Nov. 18, 2021

Lizzie Walton, PA-C, recently joined Washington Regional Walker Heart Institute where she provides care to patients with acute and chronic cardiovascular conditions. Walton earned a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Harding University and a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology from the University of Arkansas. She has been a physician assistant for over four years, with experience in cardiology and hospital medicine.

Posted: Nov. 4, 2021

Washington Regional Medical Center has updated its visitor policy to allow extended visiting hours and additional visitors for most patients. All visitors must continue to wear a mask while on Washington Regional’s campus, pass a coronavirus screening and practice social distancing and proper hand hygiene. For those who fail the screening, options for remote electronic visitation may be available. The Tyson Commons Cafeteria and Apothecary Coffee Café remain closed to visitors. The updated policy allows...

Posted: Dec. 23, 2020

Washington Regional’s coronavirus (COVID-19) hotline and Fayetteville screening clinic locations will have the following schedule for the Christmas holiday: Washington Regional Coronavirus Hotline 479.463.2055 Health care professionals available to answer questions about COVID-19 or direct you to the nearest testing location Thursday, December 24: 8 am - 1 pm Friday, December 25: CLOSED Saturday, December 26: 8 am - 3 pm Sunday, December 27: 8 am - 3 pm Washington Regional Coronavirus (COVID-19) Screenin...

Posted: Dec. 18, 2020

F. Levi Hudson, PA-C, is now seeing patients at Washington Regional East Springdale Family Clinic , where he works with Dr. Matthew Totten to provide primary care services for older children and adults, including preventive care, treatment for acute illnesses and management of chronic conditions. Hudson earned a Master of Science in Physician Assistant Studies from Harding University and holds a Bachelor of Science from the University of Arkansas. He has been with Washington Regional for over six years,...

Posted: Dec. 15, 2020

Washington Regional today received 975 doses of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine, which was recently approved for emergency use by the FDA. The 975 doses have been prioritized for team members with the greatest risk of exposure to COVID-19. These frontline workers will receive their vaccines during drive-through vaccination events throughout the next week. “Within the next 24 hours, Washington Regional will begin using its allotment to vaccinate physicians, nurses, respiratory therapists, environmental servi...

Posted: Dec. 14, 2020

Some clinics are using inclement weather policy today. Please call your clinic to verify any late openings or closings. For a complete list of Washington Regional clinics, click here .

Posted: Dec. 10, 2020

As is the case with most areas of the nation, Northwest Arkansas is experiencing an increase in COVID-19 cases and inpatient hospitalizations. Washington Regional Medical Center currently has the capacity to treat both COVID and non-COVID patients. As with any prudent hospital system, we continually monitor hospitalization trends and community infection prevalence, and develop contingency plans to ensure that we are prepared for surges in demand for our services. We are concerned about the next two to fo...

Posted: Dec. 3, 2020

Kaitlynn Britton, APRN recently joined Washington Regional’s Walker Heart Institute Cardiovascular Clinic where she provides care to patients with acute and chronic cardiovascular conditions. Britton earned a Master of Science in Nursing from Belmont University and Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of Tulsa. She previously worked as a registered nurse at the Oklahoma Heart Institute in Tulsa.

Posted: Dec. 2, 2020

Steven D. Graham, M.D. recently joined the Washington Regional Neurology Clinic , part of the J.B. Hunt Transport Services Neuroscience Institute, where he provides evaluation, diagnosis and treatment of neurological disorders alongside Jay Hinkle, M.D., Margaret Tremwel, M.D., PhD and Felicia May, APRN. Dr. Graham received his medical degree at the University of Alabama and completed residencies in internal medicine and neurology at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He has more than 27 years of exp...

Posted: Dec. 20, 2019

In an effort to increase operational efficiency, on January 1, Washington Regional Urgent Care locations in Fayetteville and Johnson will consolidate operations into the current Urgent Care Fayetteville location in the William L. Bradley Plaza. Provider coverage at this location will be increased to accommodate combined patient volume and future growth. For more information about Washington Regional Urgent Care, including the addresses for our urgent care centers in Bentonville, Harrison, Rogers and Spri...

Posted: Dec. 11, 2019

Washington Regional Medical Foundation recently received the donation of a CuddleCot by the Chandler and Paisley Skies Foundation. A CuddleCot is a bassinet cooling system that allows families who have suffered the loss of a baby to spend more time with their child. Heather Bailey, Director of the Women and Infants Center at Washington Regional says, “We’re so appreciative of this donation. Having a CuddleCot gives an important gift to grieving families.” Michelle and Dusty Hurst created the Chandler an...

Posted: Dec. 10, 2019

Main Street Medical Clinic, 707 N. Main St. in Harrison, joined Washington Regional Medical System on Dec. 1. Internal medicine physician Charles Klepper, M.D. , and his staff will continue to provide their patients with high-quality, compassionate care at the Harrison-based clinic, which is now called Washington Regional Primary Care – Main Street. Dr. Klepper earned his medical degree at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and completed a residency at University Hospital, University of Mis...

Posted: Nov. 19, 2019

Meghan Scholtens, a registered nurse for Washington Regional Medical Center’s inpatient wound ostomy, recently earned designation as Wound Care Certified (WCC) through the National Alliance of Wound Care and Ostomy. To earn this designation, RNs must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a nationally administered exam. Scholtens, who has been with Washington Regional since 2018, earned a bachelor of science in nursing from William Jewell College.

Posted: Nov. 4, 2019

Sia Vue, APRN, recently joined Washington Regional Urgent Care where she provides non-emergency care for all ages in Johnson and Fayetteville. Vue earned a Master of Science in nursing from University of South Alabama and earned both a Bachelor of Science in human development from the University of Wisconsin and a Bachelor of Science in nursing from Belin College of Nursing. She is a certified Family & Adult-Gerontology Acute Care Nurse Practitioner and a member of the American Nurses Association.

Posted: Nov. 1, 2019

Washington Regional Hospice will host a variety of events that are open to the community during the month of November, which is National Hospice and Palliative Care month. The events include: Saturday, November 9, 9:00a.m. – noon: Art Workshop, Willard Walker Hospice Home Thursday, November 14, 4:30 – 7:00 p.m.: Hospice and Palliative Care Month Celebration, Grand Village Retirement Community Friday, November 15, 3:00 – 5:00 p.m.: Hospice and Palliative Care Month Celebration, BrookStone Assisted Living...

Posted: Nov. 1, 2019

Natasha Wilhite, a neurosurgery nurse at the Washington Regional’s Northwest Arkansas Neuroscience Institute , recently earned a Master of Science in nursing, specializing as an Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner from Walden University. Wilhite will continue to serve at the Neuroscience Institute by providing both in-clinic and in-patient care, with a primary emphasis on assisting in the development of a comprehensive spine program. Wilhite, who has been with Washington Regional since 200...

Posted: Dec. 14, 2018

Melissa Breedlove, a registered nurse and Clinical Coordinator in the Cardiology Unit at Washington Regional Medical Center, recently achieved certification as a Progressive Care Critical-Care Nurse from the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses. To earn this designation, PCCNs must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a nationally administered exam.   Breedlove, who joined Washington Regional in 2009, earned a bachelor’s degree at the University of Arkansas. She is pursuing a Mast...

Posted: Dec. 13, 2018

Jennifer Cheatham, M.D., recently joined Washington Regional’s West Washington County Clinic in Lincoln. Dr. Cheatham joins Benjamin Hall, M.D., Susan Ferguson, M.D. and Tera Thompson, APRN to provide comprehensive medical care for all ages, including prevention and management of chronic illnesses. Dr. Cheatham is a native of Lincoln, where she graduated from high school. She earned her medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and completed a family medicine residency at UAMS ...

Posted: Dec. 12, 2018

Washington Regional Medical System and the Lincoln School District have partnered to operate a school-based health center on the Lincoln Middle School campus. The clinic, located at 201 E. School Street, opened December 1 and is operating as a satellite location of Washington Regional’s West Washington County Clinic , which is located at 106 W. Park Street in Lincoln. The providers at West Washington County Clinic will also staff the school-based clinic. They include Dr. Jennifer Cheatham, Dr. Susan Fer...

Posted: Dec. 7, 2018

Daniel L. Shepherd, M.D., recently joined Washington Regional’s Northwest Arkansas Neuroscience Institute. Dr. Shepherd specializes in cranial and complex spine surgery. A native of Northwest Arkansas, Dr. Shepherd ranked first in his graduating class at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. He completed a neurological surgery residency at Mayo Clinic School of Medicine in Rochester, Minnesota, where he also completed an enfolded complex spine fellowship. During his training at Mayo Clinic, D...

Posted: Dec. 6, 2018

James Roundtree, MBA, BSN, RN, CNOR, has been promoted to Vice President of Surgical Services at Washington Regional Medical Center. In this role, Roundtree will have oversight of all operating rooms, peri-operative services, post anesthesia care unit, sterile processing, surgery scheduling, and associated clinical education.  Roundtree joined Washington Regional in early 2017 serving first as Clinical Director of Surgical Services and later as Director of Surgical Services at Washington Regional. ...

Posted: Dec. 6, 2018

Brent Peterson, D.O., recently joined Washington Regional’s Northwest Arkansas Neuroscience Institute. Dr. Peterson has over 20 years of experience as a neurosurgeon, most recently at Mosaic Life Care health system in St. Joseph, Missouri. Dr. Peterson graduated from DMU in Des Moines, Iowa. He completed a general medicine internship at Garden City Osteopathic Hospital in Garden City, Michigan, where he also completed a neurological surgery residency. Dr. Peterson is board certified in neurological surg...

Posted: Nov. 26, 2018

Mary Caldwell, MS, RD, LD, CNSC, a clinical dietitian at Washington Regional Medical Center, recently achieved certification as a Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC) by the National Board of Nutrition Support Certification. To earn this designation dietitians must complete a comprehensive written exam on nutrition support. Nutrition support is a specialized practice that requires the expertise and knowledge of multiple healthcare professionals including physicians, dietitians, pharmacists, phys...

Posted: Dec. 14, 2017

Jay Hinkle, M.D., a vascular neurologist, recently joined the stroke care program at Washington Regional, which is certified as a Primary Stroke Center. Dr. Hinkle earned his medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, where he also completed a residency in neurology and was named chief resident. He completed a fellowship in cerebrovascular disease and stroke at Johns Hopkins University and is board certified in neurology and vascular neurology by the American Board of Psychiatr...

Posted: Dec. 14, 2017

Brent Ryals, M.D., recently joined Washington Regional Medical Center as an emergency medicine physician. As a Level 2 Trauma Center, Washington Regional provides the highest level of emergency care available in Northwest Arkansas. Dr. Ryals earned his medical degree at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, where he also completed an emergency medicine residency. Board certified in emergency medicine, Dr. Ryals previously worked as an emergency physician at Conway Regional Medical Center in C...

Posted: Dec. 14, 2017

Taesha Winford, APRN, recently joined Washington Regional’s Fayetteville Family Clinic. She provides medical care for all ages alongside Dr. Johnny Adkins and Dr. Rosemay Pierre. After earning nursing degrees from both Missouri State University and Southwest Baptist University, Winford graduated from the University of Missouri-Kansas City with a Master of Science in Nursing-Family Nurse Practitioner. She achieved certification as a family nurse practitioner from the American Academy of Nurse Practitione...

Posted: Dec. 13, 2017

Joanna L. Taylor recently was named Director of Imaging Services at Washington Regional. She previously was Imaging Administrative Manager. Taylor, who has been with Washington Regional for 27 years, earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Delta State University in Cleveland, Miss., and a certificate in nuclear medicine technology from Ochsner School of Allied Health Sciences in New Orleans. A member of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists, Taylor achieved certification in nuclear medicin...

Posted: Dec. 11, 2017

Stephine Phillips recently was named Director of Cardiovascular Service Line at Washington Regional. She previously was Nurse Manager of Cardiovascular Services and also served as Interim Director of Cardiology. Phillips graduated from Har-Ber School of Nursing and earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from the University of Arkansas. She achieved various life-support certifications and is a member of the Association of Critical-Care Nurses and the American Nursing Association. After serving in healthca...

Posted: Dec. 5, 2017

Erin Moore, Clinical Nutrition Manager at Washington Regional, recently completed a nutrition training workshop sponsored by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The training is designed to offer registered dietitian nutritionists the knowledge and skills necessary to perform Nutrition Focused Physical Exams, which help to identify and provide a nutrition diagnosis of malnutrition for patients. Moore, who joined Washington Regional in 2014, is a registered dietitian and licensed dietitian. She earned...

Posted: Dec. 4, 2017

Andrea Coker Hearnsberger, M.D., recently joined Washington Regional Medical Center as an emergency medicine physician. Dr. Hearnsberger earned her medical degree at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and completed an emergency medicine residency at the University of Texas Dell Medical School. She is a member of the American Academy of Emergency Medicine, American College of Emergency Physicians and the American Medical Association.

Posted: Dec. 12, 2016

Washington Regional Medical Center recently became the first hospital in Arkansas to receive full accreditation from the Society of Cardiovascular Patient Care as a Chest Pain Center with Primary PCI and Resuscitation. An Accredited Chest Pain Center’s evidence-based, protocol-driven and systematic approach to cardiac patient care allows clinicians to reduce time to treatment during the critical early stages of a heart attack. Chest Pain Centers are better equipped to monitor patients when it is not cle...

Posted: Dec. 12, 2016

Jonathan Binz, a clinical pharmacist at Washington Regional Medical Center, recently achieved two professional distinctions. He earned the designation of Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist by meeting certain eligibility requirements and passing a nationally administered exam. Binz also earned an Antimicrobial Stewardship Certificate from the Society of Infectious Diseases Pharmacists by completing a training program focusing on the pharmacist’s role in the appropriate use of antimicrobial agents...

Posted: Dec. 12, 2016

Jamie Reed, a clinical pharmacist at Washington Regional Medical Center, recently earned the designation of Board Certified Pharmacotherapy Specialist. Pharmacists with a BCPS designation must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a nationally administered exam. Reed, who joined Washington Regional in 2015, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Arkansas and earned a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. She completed a res...

Posted: Dec. 9, 2016

Washington Regional was one of 12 hospitals recognized by the Arkansas Department of Health for excellence in stroke care. The awards were given to hospitals for providing defect-free stroke care (85 percent or higher adherence) based on performance measures as documented in the Arkansas Stroke Registry between July 2015 and June 2016. Defect-free care is based on the seven American Heart Association/American Stroke Association achievement measures of the Get With The Guidelines®-Stroke Patient Managemen...

Posted: Dec. 8, 2016

Kasha Pinkerton, BSN, RN, Stroke Program Coordinator at Washington Regional Medical Center, recently earned the Stroke Certified Registered Nurse credential through the American Board of Neuroscience Nursing. To earn this designation, SCRNs must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a nationally administered exam. Pinkerton, who joined Washington Regional in 2014, graduated from the University of Texas - Arlington with a bachelor’s degree in nursing and credentials as a registered nurse. She al...

Posted: Nov. 18, 2016

Walmart Foundation recently gave $500,000 to Washington Regional’s Women and Infants Center to help support an enhanced level of healthcare services for area families. Walmart’s gift will go toward two patient wings – one each at the mother-baby area and the neonatal intensive care unit – at the hospital’s Women and Infants Center, which opened Nov. 14. The five-story 132,800-square-foot patient tower, located adjacent to the hospital and with access to all of its services, provides quality care for wom...

Posted: Nov. 15, 2016

Richard Lawson, RN, MSN, has been named Director of Critical Care and Neuro Progressive at Washington Regional Medical Center. He will provide support and direction for the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit and Coronary Care Unit, as well as the Neuro Progressive Unit that provides specialized care for patients recovering from stroke or neurosurgery. After graduating from Crowder College in Neosho, Mo., with an associate’s degree in nursing, Lawson earned both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in n...

Posted: Dec. 22, 2015

Kelley Boles, a registered nurse for the adult medical-surgical unit and pediatric unit at Washington Regional Medical Center, recently earned his credential as a Certified Pediatric Nurse. CPNs must meet certain eligibility guidelines and pass a nationally administered exam. Boles, who has been at Washington Regional for three years, earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Central Arkansas, as well as an Associate of Science and Associate of Applied Science in Nursing from NorthWest Ark...

Posted: Dec. 17, 2015

A cardiovascular team at Washington Regional’s Walker Heart Institute recently became the first in Northwest Arkansas to implant a subcutaneous implantable defibrillator, or S-ICD, that provides protection against sudden cardiac arrest without touching the heart. In a procedure that lasted about an hour, cardiac electrophysiologist Boris Bogomilov, MD, of Walker Heart Institute Cardiovascular Clinic and cardiovascular surgeon John Weiss, MD, of Cardiovascular Surgical Clinic of Northwest Arkansas implan...

Posted: Dec. 15, 2015

Danita Mullins, MSN, RN, was recently named Emergency Department Director at Washington Regional Medical Center. Her areas of responsibility include daily administrative and clinical leadership of the Emergency Department, which provides the area’s highest level of emergency care as a Level 2 Trauma Center. Mullins previously served as Assistant Director of the Emergency Department and as Chest Pain Center Coordinator for Washington Regional. She earned a Master of Science degree in nursing with emphasi...

Posted: Dec. 14, 2015

Aaron Beckham, RN, Clinical Educator for the Intensive Care, Coronary Care and Neuro Progressive nursing units at Washington Regional Medical Center, recently earned the Stroke Certified Registered Nurse credential through the American Board of Neuroscience Nursing. To earn this designation, SCRNs must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a nationally administered exam. Beckham graduated from the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith with an associate’s degree in nursing. He joined Washington Re...

Posted: Dec. 14, 2015

Rebecca Cowie, MSN, APRN, Stroke Program Director at Washington Regional Medical Center, recently earned the Stroke Certified Registered Nurse credential through the American Board of Neuroscience Nursing. To earn this designation, SCRNs must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass a nationally administered exam. Cowie, who has been at Washington Regional for three years, graduated from nursing programs at Purdue University and the University of Arkansas - Fort Smith before earning a Master of Sc...

Posted: Dec. 9, 2015

The No Excuses Breast Cancer Outreach Program, a service of Washington Regional Cancer Support Home, will offer free clinical breast exams Wednesday, Dec. 16, from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. at the Community Clinic located at 614 E. Emma Ave., Suite 300, Springdale. The examinations are offered at no cost to the public and are performed by physicians and registered nurse practitioners. Appointments are required. To schedule an appointment, please call 479-521-8024. Appointments in Spanish may be made by calling th...

Posted: Dec. 9, 2015

Washington Regional has joined the Upper Midwest Consolidated Services Center, a collaborative network of hospitals and health systems focused on reducing the cost of healthcare products and services through the aggregation of buying power and collective decision making. UMCSC, a VHA Inc. supply network, includes more than 50 healthcare organizations, including Mayo Clinic, across 21 states with $6.5 billion in supply chain purchasing power. Their members collaborate to increase efficiencies and reduce e...

Posted: Dec. 24, 2014

Because life’s minor illnesses and injuries can happen even during the holidays, Washington Regional Urgent Care Clinic will be open Christmas Day. While not a substitute for emergency medical services, urgent care is a convenient option when minor illness or injury occur outside of regular clinic office hours. Located at 3017 N. Bob Younkin Drive, across from Washington Regional Medical Center, the Urgent Care Clinic serves all ages and accepts most insurances, including Medicare and Medicaid. Holiday h...

Posted: Dec. 17, 2014

Washington Regional Medical Center has been recognized by VHA Inc., a national healthcare network, for outstanding clinical performance. The Clinical Excellence Award for Core Clinical Process acknowledges Washington Regional’s outstanding performance related to the treatment of heart attacks, heart failure and pneumonia and for the prevention of surgical site infections. Based on hospital performance data during four consecutive quarters ending June 30, 2014, VHA recognized Washington Regional for achie...

Posted: Nov. 24, 2014

November 24, 2014 - Carolyn Nutter, PA-C, a physician assistant at Washington Regional’s Har-Ber Family Clinic in Springdale, has been recognized as a Distinguished Fellow of the American Academy of Physician Assistants. Nutter, who has practiced as a physician assistant in Arkansas since 1978, was noted for exemplary achievement in service to the physician assistant profession, in the advancement of healthcare for all people, and in dedication to the community. A graduate of Wichita State University’s P...

Posted: Nov. 19, 2014

For the second consecutive year, Healthcare IT News has named Washington Regional to its annual list of the 25 best IT departments nationwide. Washington Regional, with 32 IT staff members, was number 6 on the nationwide list of Best Medium Hospital IT Departments. The publication’s list, which includes many nationally regarded institutions, spotlights hospital information technology departments that excel on measures of employee satisfaction. To qualify, at least 50 percent of the facility’s IT employee...

Posted: Nov. 13, 2014

Washington Regional Medical Center has been recognized as a 2013 Top Performer on Key Quality Measures® by The Joint Commission, the leading accreditor of healthcare organizations in the United States. Washington Regional was recognized as part of The Joint Commission’s 2014 annual report, “America’s Hospitals: Improving Quality and Safety,” for attaining and sustaining excellence in accountability measure performance for: • Heart attack • Heart failure • Pneumonia • Surgical care Washington Regional is ...

Posted: Oct. 16, 2014

A number of Ebola virus cases have been reported in the United States. As a precaution, Washington Regional has taken appropriate steps to be prepared should a person suspected of having Ebola Virus Disease, or EVD, arrive at any of our facilities. “In addition to our standard patient assessment protocol, at our Emergency Department and at our clinics we have added screening tools recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),” says Executive Vice President and Hospital Administrato...

Posted: Oct. 7, 2014

A specially designed garment is part of an initiative at Washington Regional’s Johnelle Hunt Center for Women to promote safer sleep for infants. “We want to make sure that all our families are getting off to the healthiest start, right from the very beginning,” says Carla Rider, director of nursing for women’s and infants’ services at Washington Regional. “Recognizing that one of the biggest dangers for newborns is loose blankets in the crib that can cover the baby’s face and interfere with breathing, a...

Posted: Aug. 14, 2013

Faith in Action is a volunteer-based organization that provides the elderly with free non-medical services to promote their independence, dignity and quality of life. “We appreciate this generous support from Bank of America,” says Jaclyn Keeter, Faith in Action program manager. “This gift will help ensure that the services of Faith in Action continue to be available throughout our community.” Last year FIA volunteers donated 4,177 hours of their time and drove over 21,250 miles to provide services for 1...

Posted: Jan. 25, 2013

This season, influenza infections are widespread and continuing to rise. At Washington Regional, confirmed cases in January alone have outpaced the number of cases during the previous two flu seasons. As a precaution, area residents who have flu-like symptoms are urged to refrain from visiting patients in the hospital. “Sick visitors are a health risk to hospitalized patients and hospital staff,” says James “Buddy” Newton, M.D., an infectious disease specialist at Washington Regional. “You should not com...