The Haxtun-Fleming Herald - What can we reason but from what we know? -Alexander Pope

Immune systems, heart and lung functions, joints and ligaments, are typical parts of the human body that the medical team at Haxtun Health works on daily. The inner workings of the body all need to function well for one to feel good and to perform at optimal levels The team at Haxtun Health believes these same concepts are valid for the facility in which we provide care.

"The equipment on the roof, the ductwork, pipes, valves above the ceiling and the back of house boiler room all play a crucial role in ensuring our patients get the best care possible," stated Julia Biesemeier, Chief Community Relations Officer at Haxtun Health.

Over the last year, the Haxtun Health Team has journeyed into working on and updating the Haxtun Health Facility's infrastructure. The overall project, funded by grants from the Department of Local Affairs and the CARES Act, is a complete upgrade of the HVAC systems throughout the main hospital building. Demolition of ceilings, worn-out ductwork, pipes, valves and antiquated lights has opened the way to two brand new boilers, pumps, chiller, 17 new rooftop units and 31 new independent heating and cooling units for rooms. new energy-efficient lights are being installed throughout the facility by a local contractor. The entire roof will also be replaced by the end of the project. Haxtun Health has welcomed several contractors, including several local contractors, to take on the $4 Million grant-funded project.

Haxtun Health has taken a systematic approach to keep the hospital functioning while under construction to accomplish all the project tasks. The project has been divided into five areas, and the team works on one area at a time. Infection control walls are built around each area to ensure patient and staff safety.

"Completing each area before moving on to the next is crucial to the process," said Biesemeier "We have also ensured that every nut, bolt and valve is on-site before construction in an area begins. We don't want an area closed longer than it must be, especially with the state of the supply chain right now. So far, we've been fortunate to only experience a few minor hiccups along the way, nothing we can't work through."

Upon completion of the project, much of the work performed will be out of sight for patients and staff, but some work is visible. Patients and staff are already enjoying the newly lighted hallways, updated patient rooms and a freshly renovated Nurses Station. The Haxtun Health Facilities Team is taking advantage of the time that each area is closed, doing many cosmetic upgrades to patient care areas. Many areas are also getting a fresh coat of paint and new flooring.

"Our facilities team works hard every day to ensure the facility is functioning well for our patients. Our crew has been working extra hard to get some of these upgrades done and they've done a fantastic job," stated Patrick Dick, Facilities Manager at Haxtun Health.

The infrastructure project is slated to be completed in the next few months. The entire team at Haxtun Health appreciates the community's patience as they navigate the complexities of the project.