$67,000+ Foundation Pledge Supports West Branch Surgical Expansion

The Operating Room team standing in the current operating room in West Branch.

On January 15, 2025, a fourth operating room opened at MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch. Performing surgery in the new OR was: (back, left to right) Dr. Michael Hollis, Derek Morris, C.S.T.F.A., and Cathy Buhlman, S.T. (front, left to right): Carreena Lynch, S.T., Laura Tolfree, R.N., Connie Conn, R.N., and William Gilbert, C.R.N.A.

MyMichigan Health Foundation has pledged more than $67,000 to support the recent opening of a fourth operating room (OR) at MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch. The pledge funds were used to purchase a state-of-the-art anesthesia machine for the new OR, which opened last month on January 15.

The OR expansion in West Branch not only increases surgical capacity but also improves access to care by reducing wait times previously caused by scheduling backlogs. What’s more, it positions MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch for future growth, ensuring continued access to high-quality, specialized care for the community.

“This new operating room represents a significant step forward for our community,” said Ray Stover, president, MyMichigan Medical Centers in West Branch and Gladwin. “It allows us to expand the services we offer, reduce wait times, and provide even more specialized care close to home. We are incredibly grateful to MyMichigan Health Foundation for the support of necessary equipment needed for the OR and our generous donors for making this possible, ensuring our patients receive the high-quality care close to home.”

In addition to increasing efficiency, the additional OR allows MyMichigan Medical Center West Branch to broaden its specialized services. Visiting Breast Surgeon Dr. Christopher Garces will now provide care in West Branch two days per week. In addition, the expansion supports the continued growth of the Medical Center’s orthopedic and general surgery programs. With the added space, these departments can better accommodate the rising demand for surgical services.

Kelsey Killinger, director, MyMichigan Health Foundation, emphasized the impact of community support in making the project a reality.

“This project expansion would not have been possible without our donors’ generosity. Every contribution helps enhance the care we provide in West Branch. We are especially grateful to the supporters and sponsors of events like the Tee Off for Tolfree golf outing, which play a key role in funding projects like this. Thank you to everyone who has contributed,” said Killinger.

Those interested in learning more about MyMichigan Health Foundation may visit www.mymichigan.org/foundation.