Grinnell Regional creates $114.2M impact on local economy

GRINNELL — A recent Iowa Hospital Association report reflects UnityPoint Health — Grinnell Regional Medical Center’s significant economic impact on Poweshiek County and included communities, in addition to providing health care services for patients within a six-county rural region.

The IHA indicates GRMC had a $114.2 million dollar impact on the state’s economy which accounts for 9.4% of Poweshiek County’s gross domestic product. GRMC also generated about 652 jobs in 2024, earning employees about $63.8 million in wages.

As an income source, Iowa hospitals account for almost 12% of the state’s employee wages.

"Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve," says David-Paul Cavazos, president of GRMC.

"We are dedicated to providing top-tier health care through our hospital and clinics while also fostering a thriving local economy. When residents choose to support our local hospital, they’re helping to sustain local jobs, strengthen our local economy and continue to attract quality health care providers and services that are crucial to our rural community. A robust health care infrastructure ensures that essential services remain close to home and continue to grow, benefiting both the health and economic vitality of our region."

In addition to its economic impact, GRMC provided nearly 5,000 encounters through community service programs, contributing approximately $3.3 million in community benefit. These figures reflect the hospital’s continued commitment to improving health outcomes across its service area.

The study was compiled from hospital-submitted data to the American Hospital Association’s annual survey of hospitals. The study found that Iowa hospitals employed 141,708 people in 2024.

As an income source, hospitals provide over $9.6 billion in wages. Hospital expenses accounted for over $22.9 billion of the state’s gross domestic product.

“These benefits aren’t just numbers,” said Chris Mitchell, IHA President and CEO. “They represent real programs and services that improve lives across Iowa. Many of these initiatives wouldn’t exist without the leadership and commitment of our hospitals and health systems.”