PLAINVILLE -- North of Plainville on U.S. Highway 183, the beginnings of an impressive structure that will be the new Rooks County Health Center can be seen for miles. Construction commenced last December, and as the estimated completion date of July 2008 draws nearer, excitement continues to mount for hospital employees. "We're proud of it," said Bill Stahl, chief operating officer, as he led a tour through the future hospital site. "We can't get here fast enough."
The
finished project will mark the completion of more than six years' work -- space
needs were recognized as a pressing issue almost a decade ago. Following years
of discussion and research, it was determined that a new hospital site would be
the best way to go, Stahl said. The building's current location,
constructed in 1955, has presented several challenges, he said. "The
hallways were too narrow, there are no sprinkler systems to speak of,"
Stahl said. "The electrical and the plumbing all needed to be upgraded, and
we're just out of space."Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act also was an issue, and the critical access awning was too low for ambulance entry. The new $15.2 million, 59,000 square foot facility will boast a space increase of 30,000 square feet, as well as expansion and enhancement of many health care services.
While the number of patient beds will not increase, there will be additional space for physical therapy, and the number of operating rooms will increase from one to two, with an additional procedure space specifically for cesarean section labors and other obstetric procedures. Occupational therapy will be offered for the first time, and the hospital hopes to eventually offer in-house mammographies, Stahl said.
The Health Center also will once again be home to a chapel. The chapel in the current facility had to be converted to an office as a result of the mounting space needs, said Kathy Ramsay, communications and development coordinator. "We recognized that spiritual growth or spiritual help at a time of illness is an essential part of getting well," she said.
Funds for the new facility will be footed by hospital revenue, and the health
center's Era of Caring capital campaign has collected more than $570,000 in
pledges -- the goal is more than $1 million. These funds also will help
purchase new equipment for the future location, Ramsay said.A referendum allowing the health center to issue $19 million in revenue bonds to finance construction was brought to a public vote in 2006 -- 81 percent of voters favored the project. "People have stepped up to take ownership in their hospital, and that's demonstrated through the capital campaign," Ramsay said. "It's kind of humbling to see how many people have stepped up and said 'Let's help. This is our hospital.' "It is a long-term investment that will ensure that quality health care will be here for the county for generations to come."
Reporter Kaley Lyon can be reached at (785) 628-1081 Ext. 138, or by e-mail at klyon@dailynews.net.