Into the future: 10 stories to look for in 2013
Published 10:52 am Wednesday, January 2, 2013
A major story of 2012 was the newest expansion of Mayo Clinic Health Systems in Austin, but its effects will carry into the new year as the hospital plans to add close to 70 new jobs.
3. Hospital expansion and merger will change local health care
A lot is happening at the local medical center, and the biggest changes are expected to take place this year.
Yesterday, the medical center officially merged with Albert Lea’s, a move that changed its name from Mayo Clinic Health System in Austin to Mayo Clinic Health System — Albert Lea and Austin. While the hospital expects patients to reap the benefits of the merger this year and beyond, a couple changes will be evident immediately: a completed expansion and 70 new jobs.
The $28-million, 85,600-square-foot expansion will open in three phases, the first set for Monday. The second phase will start Jan. 14, and the third and final phase will finish Jan. 21, with an open house set for 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Feb. 2. As for the jobs, many new staff members have already started, according to a hospital spokesperson.
The merger may also benefit anyone visiting either the Austin or Albert Lea site, as hospital officials say it will streamline work and provide patients with services either site wouldn’t have been able to offer on their own.
