The Pullman Regional Hospital Board of Commissioners unanimously approved at its November meeting a non-binding letter of intent with Avalon Health Care to explore the construction and operation of a new skilled nursing facility on the hospital owned 40 acre Pullman Care Community on Bishop Boulevard. The new building would replace the nursing home, Avalon Care Center, located on Military Hill that is owned and operated by Avalon.
“The present nursing home facility, while providing excellent care, is becoming older and will be in need of replacement,” Scott Adams, CEO of Pullman Regional Hospital.
Under the proposed partnership agreement, Pullman Regional Hospital would build the new skilled nursing facility with Avalon providing design support. After completion, Pullman Hospital would own the facility and lease it to a community nonprofit organization. The nonprofit organization would contract with Avalon to manage the day-to-day operations. Avalon would report to the organization governed by a board of community volunteers.
Avalon Health Care representatives agree. Nani Gray, regional vice president for Avalon, commented, “Avalon Health Care is very excited about the signing of this letter of intent. Our conversations with hospital administration and board members have been very positive and encouraging. We look forward to continuing advancements in this effort. Avalon is committed to providing the highest level of skilled and long term nursing care to the Pullman community. Partnering with Pullman Regional Hospital will definitely enhance this goal. “
The proposed skilled nursing 48 bed facility would still have the same number of beds as the current facility but it would have more private rooms. In addition to a therapy wing, food service and laundry, there would be 20 private rooms and 14 double rooms.
The estimated cost to build and equip the new facility is $6 million. Various options to finance the project are being discussed by the hospital and Avalon. These include debt financing, hospital reserves, a bond levy or some combination of these options.
“The community’s willingness and capacity to help finance this project through a bond levy will be assessed,” said Adams. “We believe the community supports the long-term vision to create a campus housing healthcare and wellness services for convenience and the efficiencies created.”
Avalon Health Care, founded in 1989 and based in Utah, manages nursing homes in five states. Summit Therapy of Pullman Regional Hospital began providing rehabilitative services to Avalon residents this year and discussions are underway to provide laboratory services as well. |
