PERRY COUNTY HOSPITAL TO HOLD OPEN HOUSE

PERRYVILLE -- Perry County Memorial Hospital has scheduled an open house July 21 and 22 so people can see phase one of its $3 million expansion project.

A little over a year ago the hospital began the project, which is being financed by revenue bonds.

The first phase of the project, which was completed July 8, consisted of 13,000 square feet of new construction and 16,000 square feet of renovated space.

A new admitting and communications office, a new emergency department, outpatient department, pharmacy, gift show, main lobby and front entrance are complete.

The second phase of construction begins immediately. It includes expansion of the obstetrics department to include new labor-delivery-recovery-post-partum rooms. Also, the administrative offices, business offices and respiratory therapy unit will be relocated.

The third phase of the project consists of expansion and relocation of the physical therapy department and completion of respiratory therapy.

Completion of the total project is expected in March.

Patrick Bira, hospital administrator, said: "The Board of Trustees wanted to give the public an opportunity to see the progress made to date. I think the public will be impressed.

"This project provides a better facility for medical personnel to work in, and I feel it will enhance the confidence of the people of the community to utilize our hospital for their health needs."

The open house will consist of tours of the new areas conducted by hospital personnel. Refreshments will be served.