In October 2001, Mountain Home’s nonprofit hospital implemented the "Lend-A-Hand" fund drive. The goal of the drive is to raise money to support five areas of care: ambulance services, dialysis, diabetes, cancer support, and women’s health.

Barney Larry, Director of Hospital Development Foundation for Baxter Regional Medical Center, recently accepted a "Lend-A-Hand" donation from Tom and Deborah Knox. According to Larry, this is one of the first contributions from a hospital physician. "Tom and Deborah have always been leaders in our health care community so it’s no surprise that they were among the first to give to the hospital’s new fund drive." Tom Knox, an orthopaedic surgeon and member of the hospital’s staff since 1983, said, "I’ve enjoyed the privileges of serving as an active staff physician for Baxter Regional for almost 20 years. I was here when the hospital was only a fraction of its current size. I’ve watched this facility expand to be an impressive, regional referral center serving patients from 14 counties. It’s important that we - physicians and community members - support our hospital’s efforts to continue offering programs that are important to patient care....even if the services aren’t covered by insurance. Contributions to this fund drive will help ensure that these important programs will continue."

Deborah Knox, an attorney and active member of numerous community organizations, explained, "Our entire community relies on the care and services offered by our local hospital. Today, many services that were once offered only in big cities are now available here at home. By supporting the "Lend-A-Hand" fund drive, we can all make a difference in the services provided to our neighbors, friends and family members. The support of this community has always guided our hospital’s progress. This campaign is a great way for everyone to lend a hand to this important community asset."

Larry said, "The growth of Baxter Regional Medical Center has been phenomenal, thanks in large part to the support of our physicians, our foundation and hospital board members and the generous citizens of our region. Together, we have a strong core for developing innovative services. This campaign is very important to our future...we appreciate all contributions."