At a time when birth rates are declining both nationally and across Arkansas, Mercy’s hospitals in the state are telling a different story. In 2025, both Mercy Hospital Fort Smith and Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas welcomed a record number of babies, surpassing milestones set just a year earlier.
Mercy Hospital Fort Smith delivered 3,006 babies in 2025, up from 2,910 in 2024. Mercy Hospital Northwest Arkansas also saw significant growth, with births increasing from 2,254 in 2024 to 2,498 last year, an increase of 244 babies. The steady rise reflects the growing number of families choosing Mercy for maternity care.
“This is more than just a number — it represents hundreds of new beginnings, each with its own story,” said Samantha Cole, vice president of patient care services at Mercy Fort Smith. “We are honored to be part of these life-changing moments and to provide compassionate, exceptional care to every mother, baby and family at our hospital.”
Leaders at Mercy Northwest Arkansas echoed that sentiment, crediting caregivers for creating positive, memorable birth experiences.
“We see each birth as a celebration,” said Whitney Tolbert, vice president of Women’s and Children’s Services at Mercy Northwest Arkansas. “This record is a testament to our incredible caregivers, who work tirelessly to make every delivery safe, memorable and filled with joy.”…