From Oklahoma Roots to Kansas Care: Pioneer Woman Recognizes Rural Health

Apr 18, 2025

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Ree and Ladd Drummond made a special visit to the Cedar Vale Rural Health Clinic and William Newton Hospital’s H. L. Snyder Medical Foundation Surgery Center on Wednesday, expressing their gratitude for the healthcare services provided by William Newton Hospital to the surrounding rural communities.

Ree, a blogger, author, food writer, and television personality known as The Pioneer Woman, shared a personal connection to the healthcare field, recalling her experience working in her father’s orthopedic surgery practice in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, and noting a familiarity with the record-keeping she observed at the clinic.

As a ranching family with firsthand experience needing access to quality healthcare, the Drummonds conveyed their appreciation for the vital work William Newton Hospital does for the residents of Cowley, Chautauqua, and Elk counties.

“We’re so impressed with this. Thank you all for everything you do to serve people in this rural community,” said Ree Drummond during the visit. "It is so important."

During their tour, students from the Winfield High School HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) chapter had the opportunity to engage with Ree Drummond about their aspirations for careers in healthcare. Willy Beat, representing the Beats Go On community wellness initiative, was also present to welcome the couple.

The visit concluded with the Drummonds attending a reception to express their gratitude to the generous donors who support William Newton Hospital through the William Newton Healthcare Foundation.

Learn more about the William Newton Healthcare Foundation