Senator Grassley visits RHSHC facilities in Cresco
Wed, 02/28/2024 - 9:39am
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By:
Paige Lucas TPD Editor
CRESCO - Iowa Senator Chuck Grassley visited the Howard County Medical Center on February 21, 2024. As part of the 99 counties a year the senator tries to visit, Cresco came in at number nine.
During his visit, he expressed his appreciation and concern for rural communities and their access to healthcare. CEO and President Robyn Schluter took Grassley on a tour around the newly updated hospital, followed by an entourage of Cresco leaders.
The hospital was recently remodeled in 2016, and includes a new pharmacy. Having a pharmacy in building helps reduce costs and expenses because “they don’t have to mark up prices nearly as much” stated Schluter.
She also showed the Senator how the clinic is progressing during construction. Hard hat ready, they discussed the importance of separate entrances for privacy, safety, and overall access for patients and providers. The $7 million dollar project, which was funded by the USDA and a fundraiser by the community, still had to be financed regarding the left over amount needed to complete the project. Grassley acknowledged the high expense and how the USDA grant was certainly not enough to cover it all.
Another addition referenced were the conference rooms that have been added. Originally a patch of grass, it is now a place the public can utilize for public meetings, as well as the hospital staff.