Cox Barton County Hospital

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Cox Barton County Hospital

Cox Barton County Hospital is dedicated to providing high quality, compassionate care close to home.

We proudly serve Barton County and surrounding communities with a commitment to excellence and 5-star patient-centered care. CoxHealth encourages dialogue on its social media pages with the aim of educating, informing, and connecting with our community. Part of these efforts involve discussion of topics on which people have varying opinions and perspectives. In general, viewpoints expressed in the

course of these conversations will be allowed. However, there are a number of things we do not allow on posts:

- Obscene or profane language
- Discriminatory comments
- “Spamming” the conversation by making the same or similar points multiple times
- Harassment of specific employees

If posts do not meet these standards, they may be deleted or hidden. In cases of repeated disregard for the code, the user may be banned from the page.

05/07/2026

The energy was high, and the community showed up strong for the inaugural Cox Barton County Hospital BeFAST 5K in Lamar held last Saturday. With beautiful weather setting the tone, runners and walkers of all ages came together for a shared purpose — promoting health and raising awareness of stroke symptoms.

The event brought the BeFAST message to life, helping participants recognize the warning signs of stroke while encouraging movement, connection, and overall wellness. As a Level III Stroke Center, Cox Barton is committed to delivering timely, life-saving care, and the 5K was a meaningful extension of that mission into the community.

The turnout made one thing clear: Lamar is ready to rally around initiatives that support healthier lives. From seasoned runners to families pushing strollers, the course was filled with encouragement, smiles, and a strong sense of community pride.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the CoxHealth Foundation stroke fund, supporting continued education, resources and care for patients across the region.

For a first-year event, the BeFAST 5K was a tremendous success — and just the beginning. With such an outstanding response, there’s no doubt this race will continue to build momentum for years to come.

Thank you, Barton County!

05/05/2026

Cox Barton staff and clinic teams joined forces once again to support local families through the CoxHealth Diaper Drive.

Thanks to the generosity of employees and community members, 2,500 diapers were collected to help meet the needs of families right here in our region. These essential supplies were delivered to the Barton County Health Department and Katie's House, where they will directly support parents and little ones in our community.

This effort is a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community comes together. Every donation helps ease a burden and makes a meaningful difference for families in need.

We are grateful to everyone who participated and helped make this drive such a success.

04/29/2026

A meaningful investment in the future of Lamar took a major step forward with the CoxHealth YMCA renovation project. Through partnership and shared vision, this effort will help expand access to health, wellness, and community connection for generations to come. At Cox Barton County Hospital, we are proud to stand alongside our community as this new chapter begins.

04/23/2026

𝗖𝗼𝘅 𝗕𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝘆 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗿𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗴 𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻’𝘀 𝗧𝗼𝗽 𝟮𝟬 𝗖𝗿𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀 𝗛𝗼𝘀𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹𝘀 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗲𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲

Cox Barton County Hospital has earned national distinction as one of the Top 20 Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) in the nation for overall performance, the highest recognition awarded. This honor highlights the hospital’s commitment to exceptional patient experience, operational excellence, and high-quality care.

Selection as a Top 20 CAH is based on comprehensive evaluations conducted by the Chartis Center for Rural Health, which measures hospitals’ performance across multiple key indicators. The National Rural Health Association (NRHA) recently announced these rankings, highlighting the hospital’s exemplary achievements compared to its peers nationwide.

Cox Barton is one of only three critical access hospitals in Missouri recognized for overall performance. The honor reflects sustained excellence, with the hospital also earning Top 20 Best Practice recognition for quality in 2022, 2023, and 2024. This marks the first time Cox Barton has received national recognition for overall performance.

“Being named one of the Top 20 Critical Access Hospitals in the nation is a testament to the dedication of our team, who consistently go above and beyond to deliver outstanding care,” says Andrea McKay, president of Cox Barton County Hospital. “Serving Barton County and our neighboring communities is both an honor and a responsibility, and this award further solidifies our reputation for excellence in rural health care.”

Critical Access Hospitals are the cornerstone of health care in rural communities, ensuring residents have access to high-quality medical services. Cox Barton remains at the forefront by strategically investing in advanced services, cutting-edge technology, and expert providers and staff to anticipate and meet its patients’ changing needs.

“This achievement highlights our commitment to excellence in health care, including delivering timely, high-quality stroke care close to home,” says McKay. “We are here when every moment matters.”

The NRHA will formally recognize this accomplishment during an awards ceremony at the Critical Access Hospital Conference in September in Kansas City, providing a fitting stage to honor Cox Barton’s outstanding achievement.

The full list of winners is available in the first comment below.

04/21/2026

We recently celebrated our Cox Barton volunteers at their annual appreciation luncheon.

This small but mighty group continues to support our hospital in so many meaningful ways, from purchasing a massage chair for staff, to making beautiful lap quilts, to helping provide essential equipment and supplies. Their generosity and kindness are felt throughout our hospital.

We are so grateful for each volunteer who helps make Cox Barton County Hospital what it is today. Their impact is felt in every corner of our care.

04/16/2026

Exciting news for Barton County!

CoxHealth marked a major milestone for community health today by announcing a transformational partnership with the Lamar Family YMCA during a groundbreaking ceremony. The facility, located at 1705 Gulf Street, will soon undergo renovations and reopen as the CoxHealth Family YMCA.

This long-term partnership reflects a shared vision for a healthier tomorrow, expanding access to wellness and education programs, fitness opportunities, and community health events.

For Cox Barton County Hospital, this collaboration is a natural extension of its commitment to caring for friends and neighbors.

“Our investment in the CoxHealth Family YMCA shows our deep commitment to the health and well-being of this community,” said Andrea McKay, president of Cox Barton County Hospital. “This facility will be more than just a place to exercise. It will serve as a gathering place that supports healthier living for individuals and families in our area.”

This investment also reflects the health system’s gratitude for a community that continues to support local, high-quality health care. As an award-winning facility, Cox Barton County Hospital remains committed to providing exceptional care close to home.

“For CoxHealth, this is more than just a name on a building,” McKay added. “It represents a lasting commitment to healthier lives and a stronger future for our region.”

04/14/2026

For Abbey Johnson, a career in radiology began with a simple goal: make a difference in the lives of others.

“I knew I wanted to work in health care,” Abbey shares. “Radiology became my path, and when I had the opportunity to interview at Cox Barton County Hospital, I didn’t hesitate.”

What started as admiration for the hospital quickly turned into certainty.

“I always thought the hospital was beautiful, but once I began working here, I knew I’d made the right decision,” she says. “Everyone was welcoming, and I enjoyed seeing how all the departments collaborate to ensure the best care for our patients.”

As a CT and X-ray technologist, Abbey thrives in a role where every day brings something new.

“One thing I love about radiology is that there’s never a ‘typical’ day,” she says. “As multi-modality techs, we get to experience a bit of everything.”

But for Abbey, patient connections matter most. “The most rewarding part is interacting with patients. I love getting to know them during their exams and having those conversations.”

From day one, Abbey noticed a difference in the culture at Cox Barton.

“From the hiring process to today, CoxHealth has been exceptionally easy to work with. You can tell they care at every level,” she says. “There are countless opportunities for professional growth and advancement, and my coworkers and leadership are incredibly supportive, both at work and in life.”

While no single moment stands out, Abbey sees the impact of her work in the gratitude she receives from patients.

“Many times, patients have thanked me for going above and beyond,” she says. “I always try to think about how I would want my loved ones treated, and I care for my patients the same way.”

Abbey doesn’t hesitate when asked what she’d say to anyone considering radiology or Cox Barton.

“I always encourage people to pursue radiology because I’ve loved it so much,” she says. “And if you’re thinking about joining our team, you won’t regret it. I certainly haven’t.”

Explore open positions on the CoxHealth careers page — link in comments.

04/10/2026

We were honored to be the top sponsor of the annual luncheon of the Barton County Chamber of Commerce, an incredible event celebrating the people and partnerships that make our community so strong.

A special congratulations to Beth Harris for being named Healthcare Provider of the Year, and to Julie Means for her nomination as Employee of the Year. Your dedication and impact make a difference in the lives of our patients, and we are incredibly proud of both of you.

Events like this serve as a wonderful reminder of the importance of supporting one another. When we unite as a community, we forge stronger bonds, uplift each other, and create a healthier future for all.

We’re excited for what’s ahead!

04/07/2026

The annual Diaper Drive hosted by CoxHealth is currently taking place to assist families in need throughout the Ozarks. You can contribute diapers of all sizes at any CoxHealth location until April 30.

Every diaper plays a crucial role in ensuring that young children remain clean, healthy, and content. All donations made locally will support Katie's House and the Barton County Health Department.

Drop-off bins are available in the hospital lobby and the Physical Therapy Department. Join us in making a positive impact in our community by donating today! We appreciate your support.

04/02/2026

The Cox Barton County Hospital Auxiliary is bringing the fun with their annual Easter Basket Sale, and you won’t want to miss it!

From sweet treats to themed surprises, there are 30+ amazing baskets just waiting to be won. Whether you're shopping for a little one, a friend, or yourself, there’s something for everyone.

Proceeds from every basket go toward needed supplies for hospital departments, supporting patient care across our facility.

Don’t wait. Bidding ends at noon on Friday, April 3. Grab a friend, stop by the hospital, and place your bids before these baskets hop away! 🐰

Address

29 NW 1st Lane
Lamar, MO
64759

Telephone

+14176815100

Website

http://www.coxhealth.com/

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