Girl I worked with had a son who needed numerous operations. Every time they went to St. Mary's, the hospital had to borrow equipment from Meriter. Finally, she just switched insurance so they could go to Meriter. That was 20 years ago. Two years ago my father in law was rushed to the ER. It turned out he had A plastic anemia. They again had to borrow equipment from Meriter. It was unbelievable! The whole experience was so bad that all six family members decided we would never to to St. Mary's if possible. I do like my Gastro Intestinal doctor, Dr. Hamilton, but I would avoid the hospital whenever possible. I've had surgeries there, and my last I was astounded by how filthy the room was where I was first taken. The nurse also had me walk in my encapsulated shoes into the operating room. I guess they never heard of MRSA or other germs. Meriter is the only hospital in town where I feel safe.