The Superior Express -

The $8 million dollar USDA approved project for the Jewell County Hospital was officially completed at the end of December.

The community hospital now has an entirely new rural health clinic and physical therapy building. A new overhang allows for patient drop off in front of the entrance. Patient parking is adjacent to these structures and the lobby with a vaulted ceiling provides an impressive view. The entire facility was upgraded to provide patients and residents with private bathrooms, new furniture and televisions. All new flooring was put down and the emergency department totally updated. There is a new overhang for the emergency entrance. All new windows were installed in the facility. Most of the hospital beds are new so the entire patient environment has improved.

Doyle McKimmy,CEO, said as a result of the pandemic, the hospital board could not schedule an open house to showcase this community asset. Since 1968, the hospital has provided care and service to the community. The new construction has improved continuity of care since the new clinic is on hospital property as opposed to the former location in downtown Mankato. This allows for a patient to be inside when going for possibly lab or radiology procedures. On a historical note, it is intended to put up a wall that contains former pictures, plaques commemorating donors, framed items about donation of the property so citizens can appreciate all of the efforts over time to provide for the health and well being of thecommunity.

A new helipad was put in adjacent to the emergency entrance to better coordinate with air transport. The previous landing space was in the street so this is a safety improvement.

The county tax support of the hospital and the loyalty of many patients is appreciated.

Hopefully in time, tours of the facility can be provided.