Lee Health, a not-for-profit health system in the US, has secured a $6m New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) allocation from UB Community Development (UBCD) on permanent financing for a new medical facility.

The financing will facilitate the purchase, along with the installation of equipment in the facility in Fort Myers, Florida, aimed at bolstering healthcare services in a low-income community.

The to-be-constructed facility will offer an 85,000ft² medical laboratory and data centre, which will enhance Lee Health's processing and testing capabilities.

This expansion is expected to support the health system's existing operations and provide essential medical lab services to more than 100,000 people each year.

Lee Health chief operating and financial officer Ben Spence said: "This investment allows Lee Health to expand critical infrastructure that supports the delivery of high-quality, efficient care across our region.

"We are grateful for the opportunity to better serve our community, while also creating meaningful jobs and strengthening our ability to meet the growing needs of Southwest Florida."

The project is set to create 30 new jobs while retaining 142 existing positions across the facilities of Lee Health.

With a network that includes four acute care hospitals, two nursing units, a paediatric hospital, and multiple outpatient centres, the health system provides services for over two million patients annually.

It is particularly focused on reaching medically underserved individuals, offering access to social services and primary care that might otherwise be sought in emergency rooms.

UB Community Development president Alex Jones said: "With healthcare being so vital to a community and the uncertain future facing providers, UBCD is grateful to be able to support Lee Health in their undertaking.”

Earlier this year, North Walton Doctors Hospital received $12.5m in NMTC funding through UBCD for its rehabilitation.