KSB Hospital and OSF HealthCare potential merger gains support with Dixon community | News

DIXON, Ill. — Three letters crown the Dixon skyline – initials for the area’s sole hospital, Katherine Shaw Bethea Hospital (KSB).

“We have had A+ service through Dr. Crowe with the Amboy clinic,” says Kim Zera, a nearly lifelong Dixon resident and KSB patient. “He is a huge part of the community, and he is always there for any patients.”

On May 10, OSF HealthCare announced it signed a “term sheet” with KSB – the start of a full merger. The news arrived following months of uncertainty at KSB.

In February, the Lee County hospital announced it needed a “financial partner” to continue normal operations. With the OSF agreement, the Peoria-based system will provide Dixon’s hospital $40 million.

Funding seeks to support facility renovations as well as improving care access in the rural area.

Zera offers gratitude for her local medical system: Evan, her son, is non-verbal autistic. Over the years, the family’s relied on the health care group’s personal and intimate care for the son.

Yet, a drastic change in level of care occurred in recent months. A routine physical and eye appointment brought unforeseen treatment as unfamiliar staff tended Evan.

“They then stated that he would not be able to be seen unless he was sedated,” says Zera. “I’m totally confused because they discriminated against my son and this community does not do that.”

The Dixon mom notes the community provides “more than enough” resources for those with special needs. However, the physical brings concern as Zera sees KSB services shrink and shift.

Joining forces with OSF doesn’t shock Lee County: “That’s been rumored for quite a while as we hear that they were looking for different mergers to come on board,” says the mom.

Moreover, the prospect for boosted finances excites the area – especially those familiar with OSF’s care.

“All the staff that I’ve dealt with have been really nice, helpful, supportive, willing to get stuff done as fast as possible,” says Tiffany Lawson, who’s called Dixon home for nearly a decade.

There’s more than hope building from the merger news. A chance to save on gas also excites Dixon: “People won’t have to travel as far like up to Madison and Chicago. They’ll be able to stay closer to home,” adds Lawson.

Zera awaits the improved return of hands-on care she associates with KSB.

“Hopefully it’s going to bring in stronger advocate for services for our kiddos and adults with special needs,” says the Dixon mom. “I do not have any concerns. I think the billing is going to go much better. Right now, they’re third-party with the billing. And I’m just excited.”

Regulatory approval and finalized agreements stand ahead of a complete merger. Once a deal is inked, nonetheless, a local community advisory council will provide advice and legal counsel to hospital system employees.

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