Big plans for the future “ Our short-term focus is getting our beautiful new hospital off the ground , which is no small effort ,” Mr . Looper says . Accomplishing that goal involves coordination of many components — construction crews , information technology systems , and recruitment of physicians and staff , from emergency room personnel to medical and surgical specialists . The Marble Falls Specialty Clinic already offers many services , with patient volumes consistently exceeding the forecasts of initial demand that were made before 2013 , when the clinic opened .
The new hospital will be a comprehensive , state-of-the-art facility that includes an intensive care unit , as well as cardiac catheterization capabilities . These areas of care are desperately needed in the region . With radiology services and other advanced diagnostic and treatment services , the
“ It ’ s a tremendous benefit for families — especially retirees — who can find the care they need nearby . They can avoid traveling to more urban areas as their health needs increase with age .”
— Eric Looper
Hill Country region President Eric Looper discusses plans for the new Marble Falls hospital with Medco Construction Superintendent Mike Shafer .
new hospital promises to be a welcome presence in the Hill Country .
“ What ’ s really great is that residents in the Hill Country won ’ t have to be transported to Austin , San Antonio , or Temple for inpatient care ,” says Mr . Looper . “ It ’ s a tremendous benefit for families — especially retirees — who can find the care they need nearby . They can avoid traveling to more urban areas as their health needs increase with age . People now will have the option to stay here , instead of having to move away to find the healthcare they need .”
As the population of the greater Austin area and the Highland Lakes region increases , Baylor Scott & White is poised to serve the greater need for healthcare services in these areas .
The new hospital and specialty clinic are also creating about 400 jobs within the first five years , with more positions to be added as services increase . Community buzz has been growing , too . “ The feedback from Marble Falls residents and neighboring towns has been very positive ,” says Mr . Looper . “ With the new hospital , we ’ re adding a missing component to the healthcare environment here .”
He is excited about the future , and the positive effects that a complete healthcare system will have for Hill Country citizens . “ Our work won ’ t be done when the hospital opens . We ’ ll continue to monitor and meet the healthcare needs of our communities ,” he says . n
sw . org | December 14 THE CATALYST 27