Since the Sisters of Mercy arrived in Fort Smith, in 1853, Mercy has listened to and responded to the evolving needs of the region. Through moments of growth and adversity alike, Mercy has remained steadfast in its mission to bring to life the healing ministry of Jesus for those we are privileged to serve.
I am incredibly proud of our team of caregivers who carry forward this enduring heritage and awesome responsibility. Even with today’s challenging health care environment, Mercy has forged ahead with resolve in Arkansas and will continue to do so for generations to come.
Over the past 10+ years, we have made significant investments in our hospital facilities and outpatient clinics, driving tremendous progress in strengthening our medical community and meeting the needs of those we serve:
Orthopedic Hospital – Built in 2014, it now supports 17 physician specialists and seven physician assistants, including orthopedic surgeons, fellowship-trained foot and ankle clinicians, podiatry, sports medicine and pain specialists.
Primary Care Expansion – Five new clinics constructed in Fort Smith and one in Greenwood, in addition to numerous new regional clinic locations. Today, Mercy has 46 primary care physicians and 40 advanced practitioners across the River Valley region, with more to come.
Cooper Clinic Integration – Joined Mercy in 2018, with successful integration of more than 90% of the Cooper team, preserving a mission-driven, cornerstone group of providers and caregivers.
Graduate Medical Education – In partnership with the Arkansas College of Osteopathic Medicine, established Internal Medicine, Family Medicine and Transition Year programs, with a total of 81 residents training in Fort Smith.
Rehabilitation Hospital – Opened in May 2021, this 50-bed inpatient facility on the Arkansas College of Health Education campus is dedicated exclusively to comprehensive rehabilitation care while freeing up much needed inpatient capacity at the main campus.
Emergency Department & Intensive Care Unit Expansion – A $186 million investment added 64 state-of-the art ICU beds and increased ER capacity from 29 to 50 beds.
Cancer Care Expansion – In partnership with the Cherokee Nation, broke ground in 2025 on a $50 million expansion to meet growing oncology demand and enhance patient experience.
New Centers & Programs – Including Wound Care, Sleep Disorder Center, Electrophysiology Lab and Breast Center.
These strategic investments have enabled Mercy to broaden our capabilities while successfully recruiting new health care expertise to our region. Today, Mercy has more than 200 physicians and 170 advanced practitioners across our community, with more on the way. In 2025 alone, nearly 30 new physicians came to the River Valley, representing specialties such as oncology, cardiology, vascular surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, pulmonology, endocrinology, family medicine and internal medicine.
While we are proud of this progress, we recognize there is still considerable work ahead, and we will be here to accomplish it together. Comprehensive plans are underway to address the need for additional physicians, caregivers, expanded space, improved access and enhanced overall patient experience. In addition to traditional growth strategies, we are also embracing technology-enabled solutions that support a more personalized, predictive and proactive model of care that will be among the very best in the nation. Currently, approximately 25% of the patients visiting our emergency room could receive faster, equally effective and lower cost care in alternative settings. To support this shift, Mercy is actively rolling out digital options that deliver a simpler, real-time response around the clock.
The River Valley region was built by people defined by grit, perseverance, generosity and faith. We are thankful for the progress we have made together, believe in the bright future ahead and will invest boldly in the future of this community.
Mercy is proud to serve the River Valley, and we are honored by the trust you place in us. Together, let us continue telling Fort Smith’s story with optimism, purpose and pride. Thank you for choosing Mercy and for allowing us to walk alongside you in service.
