Adena Health, a US-based not-for-profit and locally governed healthcare organisation, has unveiled plans for the construction of a new critical access hospital in Fayette County, Georgia.

The announcement comes after the integration of the former Fayette County Memorial Hospital into its network in 2021.

The new 65,000ft² facility will be located at the site of the present Adena Fayette Medical Center in Washington Court House.

The design of the new hospital, which took 14 months and incorporated feedback from staff and leadership, is nearly complete and includes tributes to the community's agricultural heritage.

The new hospital design prioritises patient care and the development of advanced treatment options.

Commencement of this two-year hospital development project is expected to take place by mid-2025.

The modern facility aims to enhance current services, which include the integration of telemetry units and a dedicated trauma room.

In addition, the health system plans to add a new progressive care unit to handle the fluctuating volume of patients and address the rising healthcare needs.

Enhanced services will also be available across several departments such as gastroenterology, obstetrics and gynaecology, endoscopy, surgical services, and orthopaedics.

The project will include technology upgrades such as precision robotic-assisted surgical tools and additional operating room space.

It will also offer improved patient privacy, convenient parking, and an on-site retail pharmacy.

The new hospital is expected to contribute to the community’s economic growth by attracting businesses and skilled medical professionals to the area, Adena stated.

The construction will take place behind the current hospital on Columbus Avenue, ensuring uninterrupted access to care during the project.

Adena Health West region vice-president Josh McCoy said: “What this will do is improve patient access to those services, create better efficiencies in providing those services, and provide an environment that makes care for our patients and their families more convenient.

“It also will give us the opportunity to provide more advanced treatment options within those services.

“What makes Adena Fayette Medical Center special now and what will continue to make it special in the new facility are the dedicated physicians, advanced practice providers, and the entire caregiving team who put the well-being of their patients first.”