Green Bay Reporter

BHOH, a collaboration between Bellin Health and the Oconto Hospital Citizen’s Foundation, was established to bring essential healthcare services to the Oconto community. This initiative emerged as a response to legislative changes that threatened the establishment of another critical care hospital in the region.

"We needed this level of care to best serve our community," said Julie Bulin, Vice President of Emplify Health by Bellin Oconto Hospital. "Our doors opened on June 30, 2005 with four beds and an emergency department under the name of Bond Health Center. Thanks to the support and investment from the community, the hospital has grown and thrived to what we have now."

In its early years, the facility underwent significant changes. Three years after its opening, it was renamed Oconto Hospital & Medical Center to better represent its comprehensive services. That same year marked a milestone as the hospital served its 10,000th patient.

A major expansion occurred in 2012 with a $15 million project that added 46,000 square feet to its existing space. This expansion enabled Bellin Health to offer new services such as primary care, behavioral health, therapy, diagnostics, and outpatient surgery. The care team doubled in size, allowing for an increase in annual patient capacity.

"Today we are still seeing a tremendous impact on care and the Oconto economy," added Bulin. "We currently have 380 team members, generating $37 million in total labor income contributing $91 million in total annual economic impact."

Looking forward, Emplify Health by Bellin Oconto Hospital remains dedicated to delivering quality care and services to Oconto and nearby communities.