Benson Area Medical Center (BAMC) marked its 40 years of service to residents in Harnett, Johnston and Sampson counties on Tuesday, Nov. 19th with a celebration that included many healthcare leaders and remarks from North Carolina State Health Director, Dr. Betsey Tilson.
“The talent and dedication of the providers and staff at Benson Area Medical Center honors the long-standing tradition of healthcare set many years ago when the facility opened,” said BAMC Board Chairman Sonny Surles during his opening remarks.
Dr. Eugene H. Maynard, Jr., BAMC medical director, introduced all the providers and commented, “There has been a huge commitment from the community over the years to keep the center going, and I think that the fact the organization has been able to be a sustaining force and get new providers to come to this area has been a big accomplishment. I am excited about the new providers who have recently joined our exceptional team.”
The event’s keynote speaker, Dr. Tilson, provided her insight on the future of healthcare in North Carolina and how facilities like BAMC will be instrumental in providing high-quality healthcare in service of all people.
She spoke about BAMC. “You have served the community in so many different ways and are an organization that is the foundation and building block for the strength and prosperity of the community as a whole. A healthcare facility can energize the overall health and economic wellbeing of the community. Of course, there have been lots of transitions and you all have not just survived, but have thrived and that is a testimony to your community, to your staff and to your leadership. Thank you for the past 40 years, and I’m very excited for the next 40 years and for your help in thinking about how to take the next step in improving the health and wellbeing of all citizens.”
William Massengill, BAMC CEO, ended the formal program portion of the celebration and said, “We are committed to making this a healthier community.”
About Benson Area Medical Center
Benson Area Medical Center (BAMC), established in 1979, is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year. It is a federally certified rural health center providing primary healthcare to more than 12,000 residents of Johnston, Harnett and Sampson counties. BAMC has eight medical providers and a clinical pharmacist. In addition to their mission of providing quality, compassionate care, the Center also serves as a training site for many future pharmacists, physician assistants and physicians.
