Cape's medical reputation continues to grow

Last May, Southeast Missouri Hospital announced the donation and purchase of more than 20 acres of property near I-55. Officials said some of the services currently offered at the hospital's main campus overlooking Capaha Park eventually could move to a medical mall setting on the new property.

Last week, St. Francis Medical Center announced it was pursuing a partnership with several Poplar Bluff, Mo., doctors to build a new medical campus, including a 50-bed hospital, in that community.

Both announcements indicate that Cape Girardeau's two hospitals are looking for ways to further enhance the delivery of health care to this region. Those are positive signs of Cape Girardeau's growing reputation as the biggest center of medical care between St. Louis and Memphis.

The good news for consumers in this area is that more and better health-care services are being offered close to home.