History of KVH

A Legacy of Local Care

Klickitat Valley Health was built by the community it serves. From the beginning, local residents recognized the importance of having reliable healthcare close to home and took active steps to make it possible.

In April 1946, the community of Goldendale became the first in Washington state to take advantage of the Hill-Burton Act. This federal program was created to help rural communities build and improve healthcare facilities and ensure access to care outside of large cities.

With strong local support, Public Hospital District No. 1 of Klickitat County was established. The hospital district is owned by the citizens it serves and governed by an elected Board of Commissioners made up of community members. This structure reflected a shared belief that decisions about local healthcare should remain in local hands.

As the needs of Klickitat County changed, the community continued to invest in local care. Facility renovations were completed in 1959, 1969, and 1986, each strengthening the hospital’s ability to serve its neighbors. In 2005, voters approved a bond measure that funded a 20,000 square foot hospital addition, expanding emergency services, adding diagnostic imaging, and supporting important technology and facility upgrades.

Growing With the Community

Over time, Klickitat Valley Health expanded to include services that support people across all stages of life. The campus now includes Klickitat Valley Hospital, KVH Family Medicine, and Home Health and Hospice. These services reflect a long-standing commitment to accessible, coordinated care within the community.

Throughout this growth, community oversight has remained central. The elected Board of Commissioners continues to provide guidance and accountability, helping ensure the hospital remains focused on quality care, responsible stewardship, and service to Klickitat County. Union employees are represented by SEIU, Local 1199 NW, reflecting an ongoing commitment to fairness and collaboration.

People and Purpose

The heart of KVH has always been its people. Generations of doctors, nurses, therapists, technologists, home health aides, administrators, and support staff have provided care in a welcoming, hometown environment.

They are not only caregivers, but neighbors, friends, and family members. As one of the county’s major employers, KVH remains closely connected to the community it serves. Guided by local ownership and community trust, Klickitat Valley Health continues its legacy of caring for this community with respect, compassion, and commitment.