In a significant development for hospice care in Northwest Arkansas, Circle of Life, a nonprofit organization providing hospice and palliative care, has announced its acquisition of Washington Regional Hospice. This move, expected to finalize by the end of, aims to broaden services and strengthen partnerships in the region.
The acquisition includes the Willard Walker Hospice Home, a 24,500-square-foot facility on 4.5 wooded acres near Washington Regional Medical Center. This will become Circle of Life’s third inpatient facility, joining existing locations in Springdale and Bentonville.
The Transition and Continuity of Care
Circle of Life has assured that existing patients will continue to receive uninterrupted services. The organization is committed to ensuring a seamless transition and maintaining the high-quality care that Washington Regional Hospice patients have come to expect.
Washington Regional Hospice, established in 1984 as the first Medicare-certified hospice program in Arkansas, has been a cornerstone of compassionate care in the region. The facility offers inpatient hospice services at the Willard Walker Hospice Home and outpatient services at homes and long-term care facilities. Approximately 25 staff members work at Washington Regional Hospice, with several transitioning to other roles within Washington Regional, and the remaining staff having the opportunity to apply for positions at Circle of Life.
Shared Commitment to Compassionate Care
Both Circle of Life and Washington Regional Hospice have long been dedicated to providing exceptional hospice care. Catherine Grubbs, CEO of Circle of Life, emphasized the shared mission: “With this transition, we are broadening services, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring every family has the support they need.”
Dr. Lucas Campbell, President and CEO of Washington Regional, echoed these sentiments: “Circle of Life shares those same values, and we’re confident they will provide exceptional care to our community throughout this transition and in the years ahead.”
The Role of the Willard & Pat Walker Charitable Foundation
The Willard & Pat Walker Charitable Foundation has been a longtime supporter of both organizations. Mandy Macke, Executive Director and Vice Chairman of the foundation, expressed the importance of the hospice home remaining a cornerstone of compassionate care in Washington County. The foundation has also been instrumental in funding the Joey Feek Center for Home-Based Care in Lowell, contributing $5 million to a $12.5 million campaign.
Washington Regional Medical System, with over 3,400 staff members and a 425-bed medical center, has been a significant provider of healthcare services in the region. This acquisition underscores the ongoing commitment to enhancing hospice care services in Northwest Arkansas.
