New Four State Hospital

After years of planning and construction, a brand new four state hospital prepares for its opening. Finishing touches are still being made to Mercy Health Center in Fort Scott, Kansas, but in just a few short weeks doors to the state of the art hospital will be open to serve the public. Hospital officials are hoping the facility will revolutionize rural health care. Marketing and Development Director Carla Bryant Farmer said, "What we`re trying to create is an integrated setting for all services where there is non-duplication of equipment and services such as lab and x-ray all under one roof." Officials say the opening of the new hospital represents a promise that has been delivered to the community. The new facility will offer a variety of services including acute care, outpatient, rehibilitation with the opportunity to expand. Several interior courtyards have been constructed to create a relaxed atmosphere and to make patients feel more at home while staying in the hospital. Other amenities include rooms double the size of the current hospital`s rooms and private baths. Officials say not only was this new hospital a necessity for better patient care, but will also benefit the surround community. Bryant Farmer said, "We truely believe that this kind of investment in the community will have a ripple effect on the general surrounding area economically." Hospital staff hope to have all patients moved to the new facility by the end of July. Reported By: Jennifer Haile