History

Nestled in the heart of Martin, South Dakota, Bennett County Hospital has long been a cornerstone of healthcare for the region. Its origins trace back to 1929 when Dr. Charles L. Swift established a private hospital known as St. Anthony’s Hospital. Dr. Swift operated the facility until 1947, after which it transitioned into a community hospital in 1948. Recognizing the need for a more modern facility, the current hospital building was constructed in 1954 by the board of county commissioners L.M. Trumble, V.L. Palmer, and Arnold Hein, with William A. Hauff serving as the county auditor.

In the 1980s, the hospital expanded further to include a nursing home, ensuring that elderly residents had access to long-term care close to home. For decades, this facility was a beacon of comfort and support for the elderly and their families. However, in October 2023, the Bennett County Nursing Home was forced to close due to financial challenges, including staffing shortages and insufficient Medicaid reimbursements. The closure marked a significant loss for the community, underscoring the financial struggles that many rural healthcare facilities face nationwide.

Recognizing the need for comprehensive rural healthcare, the hospital extended its reach by adding a clinic in 1999. This addition provided vital outpatient services and reinforced the hospital’s role as a full-spectrum healthcare provider for Bennett County and surrounding areas.

Despite the challenges, Bennett County Hospital remains committed to its mission. A major renovation and expansion project is currently trying to get underway, aiming to modernize and improve patient care. This project includes the demolition of outdated structures built in the 50s, the addition of over 15,000 square feet of new construction, and nearly 8,000 square feet of interior remodeling. Enhancements will include state-of-the-art emergency room, laboratory services, imaging services, expanded patient rooms, and enhanced physical and occupational therapy facilities.

Bennett County Hospital continues to provide a wide range of healthcare services to meet the needs of the community. Our current services include:

• 24-hour emergency services
• Acute inpatient care
• Skilled nursing care in “swing” beds
• Intermediate care in “swing” beds (ISB)
• Diagnostic imaging, including radiology, CT, and ultrasound
• Laboratory
• Pharmacy
• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• EKG, cardiac monitoring
• Outpatient services
• Social services, health education, and support groups
• Health screening, wellness, and community education programs
• Homemaker services
• Home Health Nursing services
• Rural Health Clinic
• Clinic Behavioral Health
• Senior Life Solutions (Out-Patient Behavioral Health)
• Cardiac Rehabilitation

We continue to look to expand our services in response to the evolving needs of the community. Our focus remains on providing accessible, high-quality healthcare while enhancing our capacity to serve patients through new and improved medical services.

The resilience of Bennett County Hospital reflects the strength of the community it serves. While the loss of the nursing home was a setback, ongoing investments in healthcare infrastructure promise a brighter future. By adapting to the needs of modern healthcare and continuing to prioritize patient well-being, Bennett County Hospital remains a pillar of support for the people of Martin and beyond.

As the hospital moves forward, it carries with it a legacy of care, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to rural healthcare. The story of Bennett County Hospital is not just one of buildings and services but of the people who have worked tirelessly to provide quality healthcare in a small but determined community.