FOLEY — Baldwin Health's new 185,000–square–foot wing in Foley is up and running, allowing for more patients and services.
The hospital expanded to increase capacity while other hospitals in Alabama were struggling. Not only is the hospital thriving, but it's at the top of rankings nationwide. The Leapfrog Group gave the hospital an "A" safety grade. Baldwin Health is the area's only 5-star rated hospital by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services.
Marketing director Taylor Lewis told 1819 News that the success was due to several factors.
"Baldwin Health has made strategic investments in growing areas and adapted our services to meet the needs of the communities we serve," Lewis said. "Baldwin County, in particular, has seen rapid population growth and we've been proactive in scaling our services accordingly. Rather than waiting for demand to exceed our capacity, we've expanded our facilities, recruited top talent, and invested in advanced technologies to ensure we can provide comprehensive care locally."
Lewis said hospital administrators emphasize efficiency, quality of care, technology, financial health and investments. Lewis claimed that they also foster good working relationships with local leaders and other health care providers.
A partnership with the City of Foley created the Medical Overlay District in 2023. Now, the City is moving forward with plans to add professional office space in that district. The council rezoned a nine-acre parcel for a planned unit development, which will become a medical park.
"This is the second medical park development that's going to be moving forward," Mayor Ralph Hellmich said. "Now that the new hospital has opened up, we're getting quite a lot of interest in these types of developments in this overlay district. This is working out as we intended."
The new site is located east of Alabama 59 and south of East Peachtree Avenue.
Baldwin Health has also embraced innovation, offering expanded outpatient services, telehealth and other initiatives. Lewis believes that this has helped the system stand out from others.
"Our success stems from strategic growth, financial stewardship, community involvement and innovation," she added. "While many hospitals face challenges in this evolving landscape, Baldwin Health's proactive approach has positioned us to thrive in a way that benefits both our organization and the people we serve."
The latest expansion will help healthcare providers in Baldwin County manage future health crises like COVID-19. The new tower will serve as a structure that can be dedicated to infectious diseases, if needed, allowing the rest of the hospital to continue regular operations.
Looking ahead, Baldwin Health is working to recruit and develop providers. Lewis said there is a great need for quality care across the region, and the health system is investing in creating more assets.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
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