Ephraim McDowell Health (EMH) is pleased to announce that $5 million in state funding has been allocated that will pave the way for the development of a freestanding emergency department in Garrard County. This investment reflects the strong support of local legislators and the Garrard County Fiscal Court and represents a significant step forward in improving access to care for the community. Pending final approvals, this project will reintroduce emergency department-level services to Garrard County for the first time in more than 20 years.
“The investment will enable Ephraim McDowell Health to create a new access point that serves not only as an emergency department for critical health needs, but also as a hub for primary care and improved access to services across the community,” said Dan McKay, President & CEO of EMH.
The new facility will serve residents of Garrard County and surrounding areas, providing timely, high-quality emergency care closer to home. Designed as a community-centered facility, the freestanding emergency department will offer 24/7 emergency services, reduce strain on existing hospital emergency rooms, and strengthen the region’s overall healthcare infrastructure.
David Meade, a leading advocate for the funding, added: “Garrard County is a growing community that will benefit greatly from expanded access to emergency care. I am proud to support Ephraim McDowell Health in bringing this vision to life and improving the health of our region.”
“This investment demonstrates that our legislative leadership is committed not only to protecting rural healthcare, but helping it thrive,” said Lucas Brooks, Vice President of Strategic Operations and Analytics at EMH. “Expanding emergency services is essential as demand continues to grow nationwide, and EMH remains focused on delivering high-quality, efficient, and cost-effective care.”
“This is an exciting project at an important time for Garrard County,” said Garrard County Judge Executive Chris “Roo” Elleman. “For more than 20 years, our community has been without emergency room-level care. The Fiscal Court and I are proud to support this effort, which will advance both the health and economic strength of our county.”
Ephraim McDowell Health emphasized the importance of collaboration in making this project possible.
“We are grateful to the Legislature and the Garrard County Fiscal Court for their partnership and support,” McKay added. “We have long believed that expanding services in Garrard County will benefit both the local community and the broader Ephraim McDowell system. This investment allows that vision to become a reality.”
The project is expected to be completed by 2028. Once operational, the facility will play a central role in enhancing regional care delivery, improving patient outcomes, and ensuring the healthcare system is well positioned to meet current and future needs.
This investment represents a forward-looking commitment to expanding access, strengthening infrastructure, and advancing the overall health and well-being of the communities Ephraim McDowell Health serves.