Southeast Health officially broke ground today on its $81 million Emergency Department (ED) and Patient Tower expansion representing the Medical Center’s largest single construction investment since the hospital was established in 1957.

The Houston County Health Care Authority (HCHCA) approved the expansion as part of the ongoing strategic growth plan for the Medical Center. The project also received unanimous approval from the Alabama Certificate of Need Review Board in October.

“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 Foy G. Mann, III, DO, medical director of the ED. “This expansion allows us to keep pace with the increasing demand for emergency services. When every second counts, space and efficiency matter.”

Dr. Mann knows his skilled team is grounded in a shared mission to respond no matter the circumstance to the unpredictability of emergency medicine with compassion, urgency and skill.

“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 employer, with more than 3,400 dedicated team members, Southeast Health will continue to drive job growth with the addition of clinical and support staff.”

The multi-phase expansion, which is expected to be completed in late 2027, will double the size of the current Emergency Department to 38,000 square feet with capacity to treat up to 75,000 patients annually.

In addition, the project includes two new patient floors above the ED, adding 52 inpatient beds bringing our capacity to 455. Other upgrades enhancing care and the overall patient experience include:

• An additional CT scanner located in the ED to improve patient flow and diagnostic efficiency
• A dedicated, safe environment for Behavioral Medicine patients to better meet their unique needs
• Relocation of the Southeast Health Medicine Shop to a convenient storefront location for easier access
• Reimagined waiting and seating areas designed to promote comfort, natural light, and a more positive experience for patients and families

The Southeast Health Foundation also announced former Dothan Mayor and a passionate Southeast Health advocate Mike Schmitz as chairman for the expansion’s capital campaign.

“This is an exciting day for Southeast Health and the communities we serve as we expand our ability to care, to comfort and to heal,” Dr. Mann concluded.