Calhoun Liberty Hospital, a critical access hospital in Blountstown, Fla., is still struggling to recover nine months after Hurricane Michael hit, according to a report from the Tallahassee Democrat.
The once 25-bed hospital is down to 10 beds. Several areas of the building are still out of operation, and 80 percent of the roof is temporary material, according to the report. Inpatient services reopened in the spring.
Blountstown-area residents need the facility more than ever as they grapple with hurricane recovery themselves. Many patients are experiencing worsened symptoms of asthma, COPD and allergies in the aftermath of the hurricane, according to the report.
Damages to the building are estimated to cost $4.5 million, according to the report. The hospital is currently operating with a loan from the state Agency for Health Care Administration, and lawmakers have earmarked $3 million for the hospital, but it has not been disbursed yet, according to the report.
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