Bridging innovative healthcare and tradition: Celebrating Sage Memorial Hospital's grand opening

GANADO, Ariz. - On August 23, 2024, Sage Memorial Hospital (SMH) celebrated the grand  opening of its new $177 million state-of-the-art facilities. The event was well attended by community members and leaders from across Indian country who gathered to commemorate this milestone.

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Delores J. Noble, Chairwoman of the SMH Board of Directors, welcomed attendees and highlighted the hospital's commitment to serving the Dine people with compassion and excellence. "Thank you for being here with us to celebrate this happy occasion," said Noble. "This is not the end; it is just the beginning, and we have many more plans for the future."

Keynote speaker Roselyn Tso, Director of Indian Health Service, commended SMH's achievements and praised their commitment to providing quality healthcare to Navajo communities. Other notable speakers included Jonathan Nez, former Navajo Nation President; and various SMH Board members.

Melinda White, CEO of SMH, expressed her gratitude to the community for their support and shared her vision for the future of the hospital. "We are excited to bring advanced healthcare services to our community," stated White. “Our continuous commitment to providing optimal healthcare and enhancing the patient experience is driven by our dedication to innovation, compassionate care, and creating a holistic approach that respects our traditional way of life.”

After the speeches, the official opening of the new facilities was marked by a ceremonial ribbon cutting. Attendees were then invited to an open house to explore department booths and learn about the services available at within the hospital. The grand opening event also included musical performances by local groups: Musical group Klagetoh Swingers, musical performer Destroy Kasmin, and Violinist Kylie Jim.

The 140,213 sq.ft. facility will include 25 inpatient beds, a state-of-the-art emergency department, advanced medical imaging technology, a pharmacy, operating room, labor and delivery and more. The hospital will also offer services such as physical therapy, dental care, and outpatient/specialty clinics.

The new facilities will officially begin inpatient services on September 30, 2024, including the emergency department, physical therapy, laboratory, medical imaging, and dietary services. Subsequently, on November 9, 2024, dental, out-patient services, and the out-patient pharmacy will open.

For more information about Sage Memorial Hospital, please visit www.sagememorial.com.