New data released as part of the Iowa Hospital Association’s annual Community Benefit and Economic Impact Report highlights the significant role Lucas County Health Center (LCHC) plays in improving community health while serving as one of the county’s largest economic drivers. In 2025, LCHC delivered $1.6 million in community benefits, provided 21,467 community service encounters, and contributed substantially to the local economy through employment, wages, and investments.
“Our commitment to Lucas County extends beyond the care provided within our walls,” said Jay Christensen, LCHC CEO. “We’re proud to invest in the people, programs, and partnerships that improve health, create opportunity, and strengthen the future of Lucas County.”
According to the latest report, LCHC’s impact in 2025 included:
- $1.6 million in community benefits delivered
- 21,467 encounters through community service programs
- Support for 432 total jobs, representing 14.3% of all jobs in Lucas County
- $26.2 million in total wages, accounting for 15.7% of all wages in the county
- $48.4 million in total expenditures, contributing 18.1% of Lucas County’s gross domestic product
These figures demonstrate the important role rural hospitals play, not only in ensuring access to high-quality healthcare close to home, but in supporting the economic vitality of the communities they serve. Hospitals provide essential services that would not exist without local leadership and investment while also serving as major employers and economic anchors.
Statewide, Iowa hospitals provided more than $1.4 billion in community benefits, employed 146,616 individuals, generated more than $10.4 billion in wages, and accounted for over $24.8 billion of Iowa’s gross domestic product.
“Every day, Iowa hospitals invest in the health and vitality of their communities,” said Chris Mitchell, IHA President and CEO. “The community benefits highlighted in this report reflect a deep commitment to improving lives, expanding access to care and addressing local health needs. At the same time, hospitals are creating jobs, strengthening local economies and serving as anchors for communities across Iowa.”