Cedar Rapids, Iowa-based UnityPoint Health-St. Luke's Hospital announced plans to build a new off-campus emergency room in Marion, Iowa, The Gazette reported Feb. 3.
The announcement comes as emergency rooms across the state are feeling the strain of increased demand. UnityPoint competitor Des Moines, Iowa-based Mercy Medical Center is also building an off-campus ER in Marion.
Both health systems will finish construction in 2024.
"Opening an off-campus ER in Marion helps us serve this community better by offering a faster, closer, more convenient option for timely, lifesaving emergency care," Ryan Sundermann, MD, St. Luke's emergency department medical director, said. "Time is of the essence in emergency care. This Marion location will save valuable minutes for patients and their families."