U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development State Director Erin Oban announced the Department is investing over $25 million to improve rural health care in North Dakota.
Oban toured NDHC Thursday to see first-hand project plans. USDA is providing a loan to help fund the renovations that will position NDHC to support future community needs and demands, which are steadily growing in outreach services.
This $34 million project will be completed in 3 phases over 27-36 months to include:
State-of-the-art emergency care center with drive-through ambulance bay for greater accessibility as well as a new ambulance garage
Increased imaging space to include a CT scanning room, bringing new diagnostic capabilities to the region
Expansion of rehab therapy spaces to better accommodate growing pediatric therapy demands and improve the community fitness center, which also support rehab needs of individuals recovering from events including strokes
Expanded residential living spaces with suites equipped with comfortable amenities and medical supports for 16 long-term care residents and nine temporary/swing-bed residents
A new main entrance to the Center, conveniently located on Park Street
“The expansion and renovation project at Northwood Deaconess Health Center is a perfect example of small-town leaders and the federal government working together to invest in the lives of our families, friends, and neighbors and the future of our rural communities,” said Oban.
“Achieving greater access to quality health care is a challenge, and our rural communities experience that strain more than most. Improving and maintaining health care facilities and providers for rural residents improves health care outcomes for individuals and families, supports critical jobs for health care professionals, and enhances the quality of life in or near their hometowns.”