Memorial Health System Celebrates 75 Years in Southwest Oklahoma, With New Hospitals on the Way

Seventy-five years ago, Comanche County voters approved a bond issue that led to a new four-story, 100-bed hospital opening on September 1, 1951. That building went on to be named“Modern Hospital of the Year”in a national competition. This week, Memorial Health System of Southwest Oklahoma marked 75 years of serving the region, and the numbers today tell a story of steady growth: two campuses, 606 licensed beds, about 3,000 employees, and more than 600 providers.

The Southwest Campus addition opened in December 2025, adding 464 acute care beds and 142 long-term care beds. There is also a leadership transition underway, with Dr. Scott L. Michener, a urologist, serving as interim CEO following the departure of longtime CEO Brent Smith. Board chairman John Zelbst credits the hospital’s staying power to one thing: it has remained a community hospital through it all.

Next up, MHS plans to build a new hospital in Frederick and a new urgent care facility in Elgin, moves that mean closer care for residents who currently drive long distances. What does a strong local hospital mean to your family? Tell us in the comments.