BANDON –The history of Bandon’s hospitals is rich. Dr. Roland Leep founded the first Emergency Hospital in 1912, located on Alabama Street across from the Masonic Temple in Old Town.

R.L. Leep Memorial Hospital (1937-1955) was named in his honor and located on First Street in Old Town.

The Southern Coos Health District was formed in 1955 and a new hospital opened in 1960 on the bluff overlooking the Coquille River and Lighthouse.

By the late 1990s, the hospital on the bluff was in dire need of upgrades and expansion. On land donated by Bill Magness, along with loans, Southern Coos Hospital, as we know it today, was constructed in 1998-99 and dedicated in its current location on Sept. 9, 1999 (9-9-99).

The campus has continued to expand. The Southern Coos Health Center and Southern Coos Health Foundation and Business offices opened in 2015.

In commemoration of the hospital’s Silver Anniversary (25 years) and the services provided to the city of Bandon, surrounding communities and the thousands of visitors and tourists that visit the area each year, SCHHC is planning a 25th anniversary celebration and cordially invites the public to participate.

“We are turning 25 years old this year and are proud of the important role that we play in this community, as one of the largest employers and the major provider of medical services, including emergency medical services, in Bandon,” said CEO Raymond T. Hino

A special logo was created to kick off the 25th Anniversary. Community events are also planned, including a monthly lecture series, an open house, a reception and ribbon cutting, and special commemorative gifts.

Everyone is welcome to attend the 25th Anniversary Lecture Series, sponsored by Southern Coos Hospital & Health Center in collaboration with the Tuesday Meet & Greet events:

Tuesday, June 11, 11:30 a.m. (talk begins at noon) Bandon Fisheries Warehouse, 250 First St. SW, Old Town Bandon: “Unlocking the Future at Southern Coos Hospital & Health Center” featuring a talk by Chief Information Officer Scott McEachern on the implementation of a new health records and accounting system. This is a major project for the hospital and McEachern will explain what it means for the public. 

Tuesday, July 16: 11:30 a.m. (talk begins at noon) Bandon Fisheries Warehouse, 250 First St. SW, Old Town Bandon: “Estate Planning Tips” with Robert S. Miller III, Attorney at Law. Local attorney Robin Miller will speak on Wills, Trusts, Real Estate, Taxes, Probate, and Estate Administration. 

August: To Be Announced soon!

Check the Southern Coos Hospital & Health Center’s southerncoos.org website and social media pages and the Bandon Health Wave, as well as local media for updates and ways to get involved in the celebration.

Come celebrate with us!

For more information, contact Chief Information Officer Scott McEachern at 541-329-1040.