BOONE, Iowa—Boone County Hospital created a $1.8 million impact on local community benefits in 2023. In all, Iowa’s hospitals provided 137,841 jobs statewide.
Last year, Boone County Hospital (BCH) generated 783 jobs that added $43.6 million in wages in the Boone County economy, according to the latest study by the Iowa Hospital Association.
“Boone County Hospital plays a critical role in the community by providing essential healthcare services and serves as a cornerstone of the local economy,” says Mikaela Kienitz, BCH CEO. “It’s contributions through employment, spending and community initiatives underscore its importance as an economic driver in Boone County. We are fortunate to have a thriving Hospital in our rural county, so healthcare is locally accessible to those we serve.”
BCH Board of Trustees Chairman Troy Thompson says, “As a community hospital, we are very proud of the positive economic impact we have. Economic impact is a big part of improving and enhancing the health and well-being of those we serve.”
The study was compiled from hospital-submitted data to the American Hospital Association’s annual survey of hospitals. The study found that Iowa hospitals employed 137,841 people in 2023. As an income source, hospitals provided over $9 billion in wages. Hospital expenses accounted for over $21.3 billion of the state’s gross domestic product.
“The contribution of $43.6 million in wages from Boone County Hospital and its family of Clinics, serves as a cornerstone of our county’s economic landscape, providing essential financial stability and opportunities,” says Jennifer Hanson, Executive Director or the Boone County Chamber. “This substantial investment in their professional team not only supports countless local families but also fosters the growth of surrounding businesses, attracting further investment, and driving economic prosperity. The influx of financial resources creates a ripple effect, stimulating local commerce, encouraging new ventures, and enhancing the overall quality of life for residents—beyond the health and wellness services they receive. By bolstering the local economy, BCH helps ensure a vibrant, thriving Boone community that can sustain and attract even more growth and development in the future.”
“Iowa’s hospitals and health systems implemented the programs and services accounted for in this study in response to their communities’ needs,” IHA President and CEO Chris Mitchell said. “Many of these programs and services wouldn’t exist without hospital support and leadership. With IHA’s advocacy, these efforts help ensure the financial stability of hospitals, making it possible for them to provide the services and programs most needed by the people they serve.”
Hospitals as health care providers are irreplaceable. Hospitals are also economic engines that are among the largest employers in their communities and for the state. In addition, many community benefit services would not exist without hospital resources and leadership.
(contributed article and graph, BCH)
