Watertown Regional Medical Center Shares its 2022 Community Benefit Report

The report outlines the hospital’s continued impact on the health and well-being of the communities it serves in Dodge and Jefferson counties

WATERTOWN, Wisconsin (July 25, 2023) – Watertown Regional Medical Center (WRMC) today published its community benefit and economic impact report for the 2022 calendar year. This yearly report outlines the many ways the hospital positively contributes to Watertown and southeastern Wisconsin, and spotlights how it continues to support the health and well-being of those who live and work in the area.

“Watertown Regional Medical Center has been a cornerstone of the community and a beacon of hope and healing for residents of Dodge and Jefferson counties for more than 117 years,” said Richard Keddington, CEO of Watertown. “We are a nationally recognized healthcare leader dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate care to those who come to our hospital in need. In the process of caring for others, we have a tremendous, positive impact, not only as an essential provider of healthcare, but also as a large employer and taxpayer and an active community partner. Our community benefit report shares several data points that quantify WRMC’s contributions and validate the hard work and dedication of our exceptional team of healthcare professionals.”

Watertown Regional’s 2022 community benefit report highlights the hospital’s continued efforts to meet the growing healthcare needs of its communities through welcoming new providers, expanding service lines and continually investing in its facilities and healthcare technology. For example, in 2022, Watertown added 38 affiliated providers to maintain or expand services and committed more than $8 million to capital improvements, including investments in a cardiac catheterization laboratory upgrade (the first of this kind in the state of Wisconsin), a refresh of the hospital’s central sterile processing area, smart (infusion) pumps, and an MRI upgrade that will be completed later this year.

Additionally, Watertown provided more than $11 million in health services to those in need, demonstrating its continued commitment to ensuring everyone has access to care, regardless of their ability to pay.

WRMC is also devoted to creating environments where providers want to practice, and employees want to work. In 2022, the hospital distributed more than $43 million in salaries, wages, and benefits for its approximately 650 employees, and contributed more than $330,000 in professional development and tuition assistance so its team members can learn and grow and improve the care they provide their patients.

The report shares several examples of how WRMC is continually seeking ways to make a positive impact in the communities it serves, extending far beyond the physical walls of its facilities. Last year, for instance, the organization paid more than $5.5 million in provider, payroll, property, and sales taxes, displaying its commitment to fiscal responsibility that contributes to the area’s economic well-being.

The hospital is also honored to have supported local activities and organizations that positively impact the region, including the Donut Dash, Glacial Heritage Development, Greater Watertown Community Health Foundation, Rainbow Hospice, Riverfest, Rock River Community Clinic, Run Turkey Run, Tour Da Goose, Waterloo Fire & EMS, Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce, Watertown Area YMCA, Watertown EMS, Watertown Food Pantry, Watertown High School, Watertown Police Department, Watertown Town Square, among others.

“Our team at Watertown embraces the privilege of caring for those who come through our doors, many of whom are our friends, family, and neighbors,” added Keddington. “We understand that we are an integral part of our community, and value the partnership and support we share with so many individuals and organizations in the area. We take great pride in our work and in our community and are honored to be able to make a difference.”

Watertown Regional Medical Center’s complete 2022 community benefit report is available at www.watertownregional.com/community-impact on the hospital’s website.

About Watertown Regional Medical Center

Watertown Regional Medical Center (WRMC) has been providing the residents of Dodge and Jefferson counties in southeast Wisconsin with excellent healthcare for over 115 years. By placing patients’ needs first, services have grown to include Emergency, Primary Care, Women’s Health, Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Heart and Vascular, Neurology, Pulmonology, Ophthalmology, and many other services. Watertown Regional Medical Center is a joint venture between the Greater Watertown Community Health Foundation and ScionHealth. For more information and to see a complete list of the services offered, visit www.watertownregional.com.