Southeast Health is putting the structure in place for future growth by including two additional patient floors to the current Emergency Department (ED) and Patient Tower expansion project.

The Houston County Health Care Authority recently approved the $15 million addition bringing the total number of patient floors above the ED to four. The original two floors, with 52 patient beds, will be completed as part of the current ED and Patient Tower expansion project in 2028.

Only the exterior shell structure will be initially completed for the third and fourth patient floors. The interior will be finished out at a later time and would potentially add another 52 patient beds.

“As we’ve experienced tremendous growth, the Board’s foresight in planning ahead to build the structural capacity for two additional patient floors will allow us to better serve our community as healthcare needs continue to grow,” said Rick Sutton, chief executive officer of Southeast Health. “Through thoughtful long-range planning, the Houston County Health Care Authority is ensuring the health system is prepared to meet the medical needs of those we serve.”

The project, which is already under construction, will double the number of treatment spaces in the current Emergency Department with a capacity to treat up to 75,000 patients annually.

The approximately $96 million Emergency Department (ED) and Patient Tower expansion represents the Medical Center’s largest single construction investment since the hospital was established in 1957.