In a recent council meeting, Amanda Guire, President and CEO of the Regional Center for Border Health, presented an ambitious plan for a new border health medical campus in San Luis, Arizona. This initiative aims to address the critical healthcare needs of the region, which has long been underserved.
Guire highlighted the organization's commitment to serving rural and underserved communities since its inception in 1986. The proposed medical campus will be situated on a two-acre site adjacent to the existing medical mall, which represents a significant investment of $35 million made just three years ago. The new facility is projected to encompass approximately 117,000 square feet and will initially feature 16 hospital beds, with the potential to expand to 40 beds as demand grows.
The design includes essential components such as an emergency room operational 24/7, a helicopter pad for emergency transport, and various administrative and training spaces. Guire emphasized the importance of sustainability and financial viability for the hospital, which is expected to serve the local population effectively.
The project has already engaged architects and contractors with a proven track record in healthcare construction, ensuring that the facility will meet the community's needs. The medical campus will also integrate with the existing medical mall, which houses 16 accredited medical units, further enhancing healthcare access in the area.
Guire concluded her presentation by inviting questions from council members, signaling a collaborative approach to advancing this vital healthcare initiative. The proposed medical campus represents a significant step forward in improving healthcare access for the families in San Luis and surrounding areas.