By Dan Hounsell

Massive healthcare construction projects involve huge numbers and generate huge headlines. But for many communities, even relatively small projects are important in bringing healthcare services to communities. Then there are the really small projects.

Plans for a new Penn Highlands micro-hospital have been approved for Patton Township, and construction will begin in the fall, according to WTAJ. Penn Highlands describes a micro-hospital as a mini version of a general acute care hospital.

The hospital will have 12 beds and include an emergency department and operating rooms. The medical office will have a pharmacy, physical therapy, and outpatient services.

“This site has sat empty probably for 13 or more years, so the township is very excited to see somebody’s going to go in here,” said Doug Erickson, Patton Township manager. Construction will last about 18 months, with the hospital opening in 2023.