Southeast Health has broken ground on the $81 million expansion of its emergency department and patient tower. It is the largest single construction investment in the hospital since it was established in 1957.
“As emergency room visits continue to increase nationally, we currently treat approximately 60,000 patients annually, and that number is expected to continue growing,” said Dr. Foy G. Mann III, medical director of the ED. “This expansion allows us to keep pace with the increasing demand for emergency services.”
The multi-phase expansion, which is expected to be complete in 2027, will double the size of the emergency department to 38,000 square feet, allowing the facility to treat up to 75,000 patients annually.
The patient tower expansion will add two floors and 52 inpatient beds, bringing the facility’s capacity to 455.
“This project will also generate a positive economic impact to the region by creating opportunities for local subcontractors, suppliers and vendors,” said Rick Sutton, medical center CEO. “As Houston County’s largest employers, with more than 3,400 dedicated team members, Southeast Health will continue to drive job growth with the addition of clinical and support staff.”
In addition to the ED and patient tower, the expansion will add a CT scanner to the ED, provide a safe environment for behavioral medicine patients, relocate the Southeast Health Medicine Shop to a convenient storefront location for easier access, and upgrade the waiting and seating areas.
