10.11.06 - Ernest Health, Inc. celebrates ground-breaking for new hospital in Greenwood, SC.

Ernest Health, Inc., a health service provider treating patients recovering from stroke, head and spinal cord injury, and other functional deficits as a result of injury or illness will construct and operate a 46-bed, state-of-the-art rehabilitation hospital on Genesis Circle near Beckman Mental Health Center.

The first of its kind in the area, the hospital will be a one-story, 51,700 square feet facility. Approximately 130 new health-care related jobs will be created from this endeavor.

Ernest Health, Inc. will incorporate the project in Greenwood, South Carolina as Greenwood Regional Rehabilitation Hospital. Construction is expected to take approximately nine months, and the hospital expects to begin admitting patients as early as July of 2007.

The Albuquerque, New Mexico-based company operates post-acute hospitals in New Mexico, Texas, Colorado, Arizona and Idaho. In addition, the company is currently constructing facilities in Provo, Utah; Boise, Idaho; and Billings, Montana.

“We selected Greenwood because of its vibrancy and overall demographics,” said
Darby Brockette, President/CEO of Ernest Health, Inc. “The present medical facilities will allow us to add additional support to the wonderful medical treatment already provided. The support of Self Regional Healthcare and Greenwood Partnership Alliance was integral in our decision to expand into Greenwood county.”

Jeff Fowler, CEO of Greenwood Partnership Alliance, said the high-tech medical services and unique care of Ernest Health will be invaluable to those needing post-acute treatment.

“The patients and their family and friends will be able to stay in our community for these services,” said Fowler. “We are pleased that Ernest Health will be locating here. Our business and civic leaders are to be congratulated for their foresight and efforts in assisting Ernest Health in its expansion to Greenwood.”

The ground-breaking ceremony has been scheduled for October 11th at 3:00 p.m. at the site. Featured speakers include, Greenwood Mayor, Floyd Nicholson; John Heydel, Self Regional Healthcare CEO; Darby Brockette, Ernest Health CEO; Edith Childs, County Councilwoman, and Jeff Cochrell, community member.