A newly renovated hospital in Marion is on the horizon.

Machinery is being moved onto the hospital grounds in preparation for the first phase of the project.

Despite numerous meetings provided by hospital officials and news stories, some constituents of Marion County Hospital District No. 1 still don’t understand the scope of the project and the impact it will have on Marion and the hospital district.

This project is more than just a new entrance.

The $6-million-plus project will renovate inpatient rooms, which were designed and built in the 1950s, to more functional and practical uses as outpatient areas. St. Luke Hospital officials have admitted that inpatient numbers are few — 1 or 2 per week, at best. However, outpatient services, many covered by patient’s insurance, continue to expand.

The same goes for a physical therapy area. The quality of physical therapy is overshadowed by the lack of privacy and space. I’ve been in that room for therapy, and it is tight. Curtains separate therapy tables but do not stop others from hearing conversations between therapists and patients.

The operating room and emergency room also will be updated and renovated.

Not only will this make the facility more attractive and modern. It also will make the hospital more competitive. This is a competitive world. Every business has to compete to stay open. The multimillion-dollar bond will be paid with anticipated additional revenue from the expanded services.

The hospital foundation is coming to the last hurdle of funding for additional amenities. As members of the hospital district, we all need to step up and give.

Can’t give a lot? That’s fine. I’m sure the foundation will welcome all donations.

Let’s give this fundraiser a final shot in the arm.

— susan berg