It would be hard to overstate the sense of pride that residents of Fairfax, Mo., must feel. A $15 million loan commitment this week from the federal government ensures the community will have a modern 25-bed hospital for years to come.

The Atchison County city of 645 residents has much to offer the world. Among its assets are a great quality of life in an attractive rural setting, excellent schools and easy access to larger cities and recreational opportunities nearby.

And then there is the hospital: Community Hospital-Fairfax, which currently operates out of a 60-year-old building, is one of the largest employers in Atchison County with about 115 health care workers and support personnel.

But the hospital is more than just a large employer. Its services truly support life in much of the surrounding region. It is here where babies are born, broken bones are mended, family and friends seek medical care, and workers and retirees alike receive access to both routine exams and specialists.

The hospital is a not-for-profit facility designated as a "critical access" point for health care, whether it is 24-hour emergency services, diagnostic lab services or physical, occupational or speech therapies. The hospital levies no local tax. It exists on revenues from its operations (including Medicare payments) and charitable donations.

And now, it will proceed with building new facilities that have been in the planning for much of the last decade. A key improvement will be an expansion in clinic space to keep up with increasing demand for outpatient services. Throughout, the new building will operate more efficiently and cost-effectively.

In keeping with the hospital's history, longtime supporters, volunteers and benefactors have been critical to the building project. U.S. Rep. Sam Graves, who was born at the hospital, was instrumental in securing federal help. And local citizens are within $48,000 of reaching a $1.5 million goal for private donations.

All involved should take great satisfaction from helping to sustain not only a vital rural hospital, but also a region and its residents who depend on it.