Covington County Hospital (CCH) will soon begin construction of new building facilities and renovation improvements as the second phase of its Master Facility Plan begins. Phase one included a new space for laboratory services, respiratory therapy, and shared areas to enhance patient experience and ease of access to services.
“This project is an opportunity to enhance the patient experience and care offerings for both the inpatient and outpatient aspects of the hospital,” Gregg Gibbes, CCH Administrator and CEO, stated. “In addition to focusing on the impact to patients, the plans aim to provide a modernized environment that equips staff to administer the best care and service possible.”
Construction plans include a new hospital front entrance façade, portico, and patient drop-off area, a renovated admissions and business office, and physical therapy and specialty clinic office renovations, as well as several unique upgrades to the patient rooms. In addition, CCH will be adding new service lines, such as virtual care and telemedicine.
Gibbes continued, “Our board of trustees have been very supportive of the continued development of the hospital to reflect current and future needs of healthcare and are excited about this next phase of growth.”
Covington County Board of Supervisors President Sterling Craft stated, “Covington County Hospital’s commitment to this community is evident by their investment and the creation of 200 new jobs over the past five years between ours and the neighboring communities.”
Further service line development and job creation as an outcome of the expansion plans, which are made possible as a result of a recent federal grant, will further CCH’s reach as a premier employer for the area.
Magee General Hospital and Simpson General Hospital, with whom CCH has an Administrative Services Agreement, will also undergo major construction projects in the coming months. Magee will receive a complete renovation on the interior of the hospital, and Simpson General will begin the first phase of a new hospital wing in Mendenhall.
“This is an exciting time for all three hospitals, and we are proud to be strategically partnered for growth and advancement of care in our respective communities,” said Gibbes.
Construction at CCH is expected to kick off this summer and be completed within 12-15 months.
