Perkins County Health Services in the US is considering a new project to expand and remodel its medical facilities.
A request of $7m from USDA Rural Development will be used in conjunction with funds from local banks toward the estimated $14m cost.
Construction is due to begin in autumn 2012 and is expected to be completed within two years.
Perkins County Health Services CEO Pam Holm was quoted by The Grant Tribune Sentinel as saying that the planned improvements are driven by patient satisfaction and will enhance care for every one of its patients.
"It is time for us to make the improvements necessary for PCHS to remain competitive in the region, maintain our accreditations and serve our patients the best way we know how – like family," Holm added.
The improvements include upgrading the heating and cooling systems, creating single occupancy rooms with private bathrooms, and fitting the labour, delivery and postpartum rooms with a whirlpool tub and showers.
The project also focuses on expanding the dietary, lab and radiology departments, increasing accessibility for the disabled and creating an aquatics therapy pool to improve its physical therapy facilities.
"Even though the pending improvements are expensive, PCHS has been working diligently to save money and gain the loans necessary to ensure there is not an additional monetary need from the local tax base," Holm added.
"The amount of money PCHS receives every year from taxes has remained the same over the last decade and is not expected to increase."