Today, Marian Regional Medical Center Celebrates 80 Years of Serving the Community

SANTA MARIA, CA – May 20, 2020 – It was on May 20, 1940 when Marian’s story began. The Sisters of Saint Francis of Penance and Christian Charity founded Our Lady of Perpetual Help Hospital were invited in to Santa Maria to provide for the medical and spiritual needs of the community. Eighty years later, Marian Regional Medical Center’s 191-bed hospital is an award-winning facility at the forefront of health care.

“As Marian celebrates this significant milestone, we reflect on the countless and loyal supporters that helped bring to fruition our vision of health care in Santa Maria,” says, Marian Regional Medical Center President and CEO, Sue Andersen. “From our humble beginnings as a small community hospital to the present day standing as a regional, teaching medical center, our commitment to our patients and community has never wavered.”

During the fundraising campaign and the construction of the impressive new 235,000 square-foot hospital, which opened its doors in 2012, Marian made a promise to the community to provide exceptional medical care: today, tomorrow and always. As a result of the continued support of the community, and through the philanthropic work of the Marian Regional Medical Center Foundation, Marian is proud to be a top ranked hospital, earning notable accolades for quality, safety, and service. Throughout Marian’s legacy, philanthropy has remained essential to the medical center’s growth and development. Because of this support, Marian continues to deliver on its promise.

“I am immensely proud to stand alongside a group of remarkable local leaders to implement the vision of the future of health care, says Chair of the Marian Foundation Board of Directors, Jason Diani. “The collaboration of our board members partnered with the evolving health care priorities of our community allows us to make strategic decisions that will impact care for generations to come.” 

The support and response of our generous community ensured our growing population had access to the highest level of medical care. During the planning phases of the new hospital, the needs of the community were incorporated into designing a comfortable and healing environment, offering and expanded emergency room, a new Neonatal intensive care unit and private rooms for patients and their loved ones. 

The remarkable building, recognized among the Top 25 most beautiful hospitals in the nation, and our stunning geography enables Marian to recruit and retain highly-trained nurses, caregivers, and physicians from the nation’s most prestigious medical schools and premier medical centers. Marian has continued to invest in the most advanced and innovative technologies to enhance surgical specialties, image quality and accuracy, and enhanced patient safety and comfort. 

“Marian Regional Medical Center is a milestone in our community,” says Santa Maria Mayor Alice Patino. “Marian has made good on its promise, and remains committed to providing the people of the Santa Maria Valley and surrounding communities with exceptional medical care for years to come.” 

As Marian celebrates 80 years of health care innovation, we offer great respect and gratitude to the Sisters of Saint Francis for their visionary leadership and legacy of wellness, health, and healing. In addition, Marian is grateful for the outpouring of support and direction received from the community. Despite the ever-changing and challenging climate of health care, Marian remains dedicated to serving the health care needs of our region.

[Photos: Left - Marian Regional Medical Center Bell Towers, Right - Marian Regional Medical Center front]

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About Marian Regional Medical Center
Marian Regional Medical Center is a technologically advanced, 191-bed facility that provides safe, quality care. Marian is designated a STEMI Receiving Center in Santa Barbara County, and is designated a Level III Trauma Center by Santa Barbara County’s Emergency Medical Services Agency. The facility has achieved prestigious designation as a Primary Stroke Center by the Joint Commission for advanced, comprehensive care for stroke patients. Our cancer care program is accredited as a Comprehensive Community Cancer Center by the American College of Surgeons’ Commission on Cancer, and received the Outstanding Achievement Award. The campus houses a comprehensive perinatology/ neonatology program, providing specialized care to the tiniest of patients.