Aspirus embarks on $227 million hospital expansion

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Aspirus Health in Wausau, Wisconsin is expanding one of its hospitals to the tune of about $227 million, with Aspirus Wausau Hospital earmarked for renovation as critical care needs grow in the region, the health system said.

The multiphase project, which is slated to begin early this year, is meant to position the hospital as a destination for complex, specialized care, the system said.

“This expansion positions Aspirus Wausau Hospital as the destination for specialized health care in north-central Wisconsin,” said Matt Heywood, Aspirus President and CEO. “It is a direct response to the growing needs of our patients and communities. By increasing capacity and access to advanced technology, we are ensuring timely care and creating efficiencies that benefit everyone.”

WHAT’S THE IMPACT?

The expansion includes several key features, including increased capacity. It will add 48 intermediate-care beds and a 16-bed observation unit, with provisions in place for future expansion of the Intensive Care Unit.

New advanced diagnostics will include a new fixed PET/CT scanner to improve cancer services and minimize patient travel for imaging. Specialized care units will feature redesigned spaces meant to better support care teams.

Also, upgraded and expanded surgical facilities will be established to improve operational efficiency and meet rising patient demand, the system said.

“This expansion is designed for flexibility and foresight,” said Heywood. “It will enhance patient flow, improve care transitions, and strengthen collaboration across our specialized care teams. By providing better tools and resources, we are empowering our staff to deliver the highest level of care efficiently and effectively.”

Aspirus said the $227 million investment will prepare the system for future expansion, particularly in neuroscience and heart care. Construction will proceed in phases to minimize disruption to hospital operations, the system said.

THE LARGER TREND

Last March, Aspirus completed its affiliation with Duluth, Minnesota-based St. Luke’s. The expanded health system now operates 19 hospitals and 130 outpatient locations with nearly 14,000 team members, including 1,300 employed physicians and advanced practice clinicians across northeastern Minnesota, northern and central Wisconsin, and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Aspirus said it has made a number of commitments as part of the affiliation. Among them are to honor all physician, labor and union contracts; invest at least $300 million over eight years to fund St. Luke’s strategic projects; implement the Epic electronic medical record platform and other standard systems to promote integration and efficiency within 24 months; and expand Aspirus Health Plan into St. Luke’s service area within two years, subject to regulatory constraints and timelines.

Jeff Lagasse is editor of Healthcare Finance News.
Email: jlagasse@himss.org
Healthcare Finance News is a HIMSS Media publication.