Sanford Bismarck has announced it’s going to build a new heart hospital.
It will be built downtown, near the current Sanford campus.
"As we saw significant growth over the last three years, it has really shed a light on what's going on in Bismarck," said Sanford Bismarck president Dr. Michael LeBeau. "There's a great need for capacity. And we're excited -- as you look at 26 heart providers, and really building a full, comprehensive heart program."
As to the timing, LeBeau said it will take an 18 to 24 month planning phase. And he said there are issues with the location.
"We're going to have to deal with parking, traffic flow and infrastructure," LeBeau said. "We're going to have to engage the community leaders, and sit down to see what makes sense."
LeBeau said the timeline and price will develop over the next one to two years.
Sanford Heart and Ancillary Services director Bill Kopp said the new heart hospital will allow Sanford's services to grow -- and the central location will be advantageous for patients.
"Minutes matter anytime you are dealing with a heart," Kopp said. "If we can shave some minutes off by having one facility as opposed to providing the services throughout the whole hospital and clinic, we can shave some minutes off for that heart attack patient, and actually help save lives."
