When you think of alpena general hospital, you may envision a medical facility that is well-known and respected in the community. This hospital has a wide range of services and departments, including one that specializes in mental health. Its psychiatric treatment can help people suffering from anxiety, depression, relationship issues, stress and grief. This hospital also offers dual diagnosis, a type of treatment that addresses both mental illness and addiction.
MyMichigan Medical Center Alpena was named a top 20 rural and community hospital by the National Rural Health Association (NRHA). This honor is based on patient surveys that ask patients about their experience with hospital care. The hospital’s president, Hunter Nostrant, credits this recognition to the hard work of the staff and patients who support it. He believes that this is a great way to demonstrate the hospital’s commitment to delivering high-quality health care.
In addition to its 139 licensed beds, the hospital is home to an array of medical specialties that include behavior health services, cancer care, diagnostic imaging (x-rays, CT scanning), orthopedics, pain management, rehabilitation, surgery and wound & hyperbaric medicine. The hospital has a 24-hour emergency department to serve the area’s needs.
The hospital was built in 1934 and served as the center of the local healthcare system for decades. It was eventually replaced by the current facility, which is situated on the shores of Lake Huron among vast forests and endless clear water. The facility has an active medical staff of more than 251 physicians and mid-level practitioners who specialize in 44 different medical fields.
According to Healthgrades, alpena general hospital has received the highest national marks in two of the three ratings that determine hospital quality: clinical outcomes and patient experience. Healthgrades also recognizes the hospital for having an outstanding record of safety and infection control.
In addition, the hospital was ranked in the top 10 percent of all hospitals for both hip replacements and knee replacements. This is a result of the hospital’s high quality care and its skilled surgeons.
While the hospital is a large employer in the region, it has also made an effort to diversify its workforce to better serve the community. The hospital is currently hiring for various positions, including nurses and pharmacists. It is also looking for a chief clinical officer and an associate chief nursing executive.
In 2018, the county hired a consultant to conduct a feasibility study on repurposing the hospital, which was closed in 2014. Supervisors approved a motion by Soboroff and Lincoln to hire AECOM for market studies, structural analysis and a financial plan for the building. They will produce a final report for the board of supervisors in early 2023. This will lay out options for the building’s future use, including repurposing it into housing. The project could cost up to $100 million and be completed in about 15 years.