Hartford, Kentucky – Owensboro Health marked the start of construction on a new healthplex that will serve Ohio County residents with a full suite of medical services. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on State Route 69 North, where the organization plans to erect a nearly 12,000‑square‑foot building that brings primary care, specialty care, laboratory services and imaging under one roof.
Why the healthplex matters to the community
For many families in Hartford and the surrounding rural areas, traveling to larger cities for routine appointments has been a barrier to timely care. By locating a comprehensive facility within the town, Owensboro Health hopes to reduce travel time, lower costs for patients, and improve overall health outcomes. The project aligns with the health system’s long‑standing commitment to delivering high‑quality, coordinated care to the people it serves.
Leadership’s vision for the new site
“First and foremost, we are focused on high‑quality care,” said Dr. Mhroos Peters, a primary‑care physician with Owensboro Health. “Patients want connected, coordinated care, and they deserve care that delivers excellent results and satisfaction. That’s why we’re here—to serve the community with the best possible health services.”
Dr. Peters emphasized that the healthplex will not only provide medical treatment but also act as a hub for health education and preventive services, reinforcing the system’s preventative‑care philosophy.
Project timeline and expectations
Construction is slated to begin immediately, with the goal of opening the doors in November of next year. The timeline reflects a rapid yet careful build process, ensuring that the facility meets modern standards for patient safety, accessibility, and technology integration.
When asked about the anticipated impact, Owensboro Health officials noted that the healthplex is expected to create a modest number of construction jobs in the short term and, once operational, will employ a range of medical and support staff drawn from the local workforce.
Community response
Local leaders and residents expressed enthusiasm for the project, citing the need for more convenient health services in a region where options have been limited. County commissioners highlighted the healthplex as a positive development for economic growth, noting that improved health infrastructure can attract new businesses and families to the area.
“Having a state‑of‑the‑art health facility right here in Hartford is a win for everyone,” said an Ohio County commissioner who attended the ceremony. “It strengthens our community’s resilience and shows that we are investing in the well‑being of our citizens.”
Looking ahead
Owensboro Health’s expansion into Hartford reflects a broader trend of health systems extending services into underserved rural markets. By consolidating multiple specialties in one location, the healthplex aims to streamline patient journeys, reduce referrals to distant hospitals, and foster a more integrated approach to health care.
As the construction progresses, Owensboro Health will keep the public informed through regular updates, ensuring transparency and continued community involvement throughout the project’s development.
Original reporting: 14 News WFIE Evansville (news) — read the source article.
