Baxter Health has been honored with the Silver Award from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for its outstanding efforts in promoting organ donation awareness and advocacy throughout its organization and community.
The recognition highlights Baxter Health’s commitment to fostering a donation-friendly culture and supporting the nationwide mission to reduce the organ transplant waiting list. In 2024, the hospital joined a national campaign to engage staff and educate the public on the urgent need for organ and tissue donors. Currently, over 100,000 people across the U.S.—including more than 300 in Arkansas—are waiting for life-saving organ transplants.
Through initiatives such as honor walks, remembrance ceremonies, and public education campaigns, Baxter Health facilitated 275 donor referrals, 20 tissue donations, and supported 21 donor families. These impactful actions reflect the hospital’s growing partnership with the Arkansas Regional Organ Recovery Agency (ARORA), a leader in organ and tissue recovery in the state.
“This award is a reflection of our dedicated staff and the generous families who have said ‘yes’ to donation,” said Tammy Hodges, RN, Trauma Program Manager and Stroke Coordinator at Baxter Health. “We are deeply moved by the lives that have been changed and saved through these selfless acts.”
For those interested in registering as an organ donor or learning more about the cause, visit arora.org.
