Former Chair Experiences the Excellence of Beloit Health System

Joanne and John Acomb are avid supporters of Beloit Health System—including the emergency services it provides. Yet they probably never expected to become direct recipients of the "quality care" Joanne had been advocating throughout the years—until the day an ambulance rushed them to the hospital's emergency department.

The Acombs were traveling on Interstate 90 near Beloit when they were in an automobile accident. Although they were closer to another medical facility, Joanne insisted on being taken to Beloit Health System—with good reason: She trusted the staff and was uniquely familiar with the exceptional level of care that she would receive.

Prior to the accident, Joanne served on the hospital's Quality Assurance Committee, and to her, quality care was more than a phrase in the Joint Commission requirements. She took a hands-on approach to ensure each patient was receiving excellent medical skills, personalized care and compassion. She states, "Being a part of that committee was very fulfilling because it really got you involved in making the hospital better."

Joanne was asked to serve as chair of Beloit Health System's board of trustees. Even after her term on the board ended, she would stop in periodically to receive updates. It was one example of how she ensured that her expectations for quality care had continued.

Both Joanne and John feel the strengths of the hospital are in large partdue to its exceptional leadership. Joanne says, "There are high expectations from the hospital management, which leads to a quality staff and very little turnover." John adds, "Having a quality local hospital with outstanding emergency room facilities measurably strengthens our community."

The Acombs designate their gifts to the Foundation to support the emergency department's needs for specialized equipment and training. Sparked by their interest in making exceptional emergency care available to Beloit area residents, Joanne says, "Our commitment goes back a number of years, and we plan to continue it for many more."