Gritman Medical Center has completed significant upgrades to its surgical operations in Moscow, marking a key development in the hospital’s commitment to expanding its services. The upgrades, finalized on Wednesday, involved an 18-month project focused on enhancing the Sterile Processing Department, now situated on the third floor of the “1960s wing” of the facility.
The newly renovated department is now responsible for the decontamination and sanitization of all surgical equipment, a crucial step in maintaining patient safety and operational efficiency. To support these advancements, Gritman constructed a new electrical room outside the main building, ensuring that the Sterile Processing Department has a dedicated power source.
Expansion Plans and Surgical Growth
These upgrades are part of Gritman’s broader strategy to expand its surgical services to accommodate the growing needs of the community. In 2024 alone, nearly 3,000 surgeries were performed at the facility, highlighting the increasing demand for surgical procedures. The hospital has also invested in advanced technology, acquiring surgical robots in both 2022 and 2023, while actively recruiting new specialists in areas such as general surgery, gastroenterology, and orthopedics.
In a further move to enhance its surgical capabilities, Gritman Medical Center has announced its complete acquisition of the Palouse Surgery Center on A Street in Moscow. Previously, Gritman held a 60% stake in the ambulatory surgery center. This transition allows the hospital to optimize the use of the Palouse Surgery Center’s facilities, better aligning surgical scheduling with patient demand across the Gritman system.
Funding and Future Prospects
The funding for these upgrades and acquisitions has been sourced from Gritman’s operating revenue and tax-exempt revenue bonds. As a private, nonprofit community hospital, Gritman does not depend on local tax dollars, allowing it to reinvest into its infrastructure and services.
The enhancements at Gritman Medical Center are anticipated to greatly improve the quality of care provided to patients in the region. With these strategic investments, the hospital is poised to meet the evolving needs of its community while continuing to deliver exceptional surgical services.
For further information, readers can contact Kuipers at [email protected].
