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SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia is supporting a local doctor and his mission to bring free health care to underserved areas in Belize. Continuing their healing ministry of Jesus Christ, the Centralia-based hospital donated an electrocardiogram (EKG) machine to the Belize Mission Project, a non-profit group founded by Centralia doctor Frank Whipps, DMD, that has been serving communities throughout Belize for over 30 years.

SSM Health continues the ministry they began in 1872 after their founding Sisters settled in St. Louis, MO to serve those affected by the smallpox epidemic. Just as then, SSM Health is seeking to better understand the needs of the communities it serves using resources and expertise to better provide comprehensive care for every person, with a focus on reaching out to the many who even today have difficulty accessing the services they need. 

“Medical services in Belize are limited. This EKG machine will help us be able to diagnose cardiac issues in the Indigenous population and tourists alike. Not long ago, our doctor on the island lost a patient simply because we did not have the proper equipment to diagnose or treat the patient's heart condition. On behalf of the Belize Mission Project, we appreciate SMH for donating this equipment.” 

Guided by their Mission - Through our exceptional health care services, SSM Health reveals the healing presence of God - cherishes the sacredness and dignity of each person as demonstrated through our values of compassion, respect, excellence, stewardship, and community.

SSM Health welcomes thoughts on how to create healthier communities together. Please send thoughts, ideas, and questions to community.benefits@ssmhealth.com.

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About SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital – Centralia
SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital – Centralia, operating in partnership with the Felician Sisters, is a 113-bed hospital specializing in behavioral health, bariatric surgery, wound/hyperbaric care, cancer treatments, and minimally invasive general surgical care along with pediatric emergency and NICU telemedicine program in conjunction with the physicians at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital of St. Louis, Mo.

In 2016, SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital was named a “Best Hospital” by US News and World Report for the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; Healthgrades Outstanding Patient Experience Award for seven years in a row; the Pulmonary Care Excellence Award five years in a row; and in recent years the Critical Care Excellence Award.  It also was recognized in 2016 through Quest by Premier Inc. with the Citation of Merit Award for High-Value Healthcare.

For more information, visit us at ssmhealth.com or find us on Facebook.