The Latacha Education Center
Supporting Methodist Patients and Staff through Enhanced Education and Simulation
We believe in doing all we can to get our patients back to their homes, their families — and their lives — as quickly as possible. That’s why we are dedicated to investing in innovation and education.
The Latacha Education Center helps ensure the highest-quality care for patients at Methodist Hospital:
- Enhanced training for staff
- Comprehensive education for patients and families
- Shorter hospital stays
- Fewer readmissions
It includes dedicated education and conference space for patients and families and a lab with two advanced patient simulators. Staff can practice trauma scenarios, medical emergencies and more in this safe, controlled environment.
Learn more about the importance of the Latacha Education Center:
Methodist Hospital's Latacha Education Center ready to serve staff, patients and caregivers
The Latacha Education Center in the news:
KETV: New center at Methodist Hospital named after beloved cardiologist
KMTV: New $1 million Latacha Education Center at Methodist Hospital continues the legacy of late cardiologist
WOWT: Nebraska Methodist’s Latacaha Education Center provides a home to AI simulators
About Dr. Matthew Latacha
A gifted electrophysiologist, Dr. Matthew Latacha (1976-2023) was well-respected and loved by patients, colleagues and staff.
He led at Methodist by launching innovative programs, including the WATCHMAN procedure that helps patients with atrial fibrillation decrease their stroke risk.
Killed in a cycling accident, Dr. Latacha left behind a wife and three children. The Latacha Education Center continues his legacy of caring—a place where staff can improve knowledge and performance and patients can learn the skills they need to return home with confidence and take charge of their recovery.
Dr. Latacha believed that enhancing the lives of our patients is the very core of what we do. We’re grateful this project will strengthen care in our communities while honoring his legacy.
"It keeps his memory alive. It keeps people talking about him, what he did, and what he contributed in this area." - Kim Latacha, Dr. Latacha's wife
Dedication of the Latacha Education Center | January 10, 2025
Members of the Latacha family, Methodist leadership and staff, and project supporters gathered on January 10, 2025, for the dedication and blessing of the Latacha Education Center. It is located in the south tower of Methodist Hospital on the 9th floor.
