Investor Highlight: Guthrie County Medical Center 

For several years, Guthrie County Hospital (GCH) administrators knew they wanted to reach out to Stuart and the surrounding community with a satellite clinic. After several discussions, GCH announced in March 2011 the purchase of the West Central Valley School district office building located at 312 N. Fremont in Stuart. The question was how to construct a medical clinic, which could expand the already-established sites in Adair and Panora, at a rational cost. 

It was evident something must happen quickly in order to ensure that Stuart citizens continue to receive quality care close to home. On September 20, 2011, a temporary home was delivered to GCH's newly-purchased location in the form of a mobile unit delivered by ModSpace, a Kansas City, Mo. company. Occupancy of the mobile unit began immediately, and the staff began to provide medical care from that building. 

In the meantime, GCH facilitated several community advisory meetings, and sparked numerous conversations to listen to the healthcare needs and desires of the community. In doing so, GCH and GCH Family Medicine learned the Stuart community along with several neighboring communities, needed a near-by pediatrician. While plans continued for the renovation of the new medical clinic, GCH started recruiting for a pediatrician. In June of 2012, Guthrie County Hospital and GCH Family Medicine Clinics announced the addition of Dr. Cody Silker, pediatrician, to their list of providers. In addition to Dr. Silker, the medical staff currently providing care from the temporary location in Stuart includes Dr. Michael McCleary, Cindy Peterson, ARNP, and Marcia Roenfeld, ARNP.

The process of opening bids to the public was begun, and on October 26, 2012 a bid was accepted from Badding Construction of Carroll. More than $900,000 will be put into the original building enabling GCH to meet the health care needs of the Stuart community.

Construction is projected to start by December 1, 2012 with a nine-month plan in place to complete the renovation by August 2013. When completed, the 3600 square foot medical building will boast a new exterior finish, and be equipped with on-site x-ray and expanded laboratory services. The plan is to provide an inviting patient-friendly atmosphere with a large reception area and waiting room, six patient exam rooms, and three provider offices. One of the most appealing family features will be a separate pediatric waiting room.

A 100-square foot addition for an entry vestibule will be located on the west side of the building. In addition to being handicap accessible, a three-stop elevator will be installed.

The goal of GCH is that the Stuart community can be confident of ongoing medical attention, and that there will be no interruption in patient care during the renovation process. GCH Family Medicine in Stuart is currently open Monday thru Friday and may be reached at 515-523-8050.