A History of Empowering Patients

Since being founded more than 125 years ago, Bethesda has grown from a small community hospital to the largest long-term acute care hospital in the region. Find out about our rich history.

We work to empower patients to overcome barriers, make the most of their abilities and talents, and reinvent their lives as rich and meaningful.

We’re different from other rehabilitation facilities because we provide integrated programs – treating the physical, emotional, spiritual and social aspects of each individual.

H1N1 & Hospital Visitors

Planning to visit a patient at Bethesda? Please review our H1N1 visitor information before coming to the hospital.

John Mastel Named Health Care Hero of 2009

John Mastel, long-time Bethesda Hospital volunteer and the heart and soul behind the stroke support group and peer visitors program, has been selected as a Health Care Hero of 2009 by Twin Cities Business magazine, Medica and KARE 11.

This is the second year for this award, which honors eight individuals who exemplify commitment, focus, talent, compassion and achievement in improving the quality of health care.

Mastel, a tireless advocate for stroke awareness, education and outreach programming, has made serving others his lifetime mission including establishing St. Joseph's Hospital's brain aneurysm support group and leading Bethesda's peer visitors program for over 20 years.

Through these two programs, he continues to provide hope and inspiration to inpatients and outpatients alike.

His story will be featured in an upcoming issue of Twin Cities Business magazine, and he will be honored at a Health Care Heroes breakfast in June.

CEO Named One of “25 Women to Watch”

Cathy Barr, CEO of Bethesda Hospital, was named a 2008 recipient of the "25 Women to Watch in the Twin Cities" by Minneapolis St. Paul Business Journal. 

Barr was selected based on her professional achievements, her leadership qualities and drive, and her potential to be in the business community spotlight for years to come.

Always an innovator, Barr's career reflects her ability to make quality care and patient satisfaction a top priority. She has also helped create a workplace that is vibrant and respectful.

Barr is a nine-year veteran of HealthEast executive leadership. Before joining Bethesda she served as Vice President for Community Based Services and as Home Care Senior Director.