Local Doctors Announce Plans to Build $4.5 Million Medical Office Building Near Hospital
February 17th, 2009 by Joe BurgessAt the Drew County Quorum Court meeting, it was announced that 3 local doctors and a dentist intend to build a 2 story, $4.5 million medical office building, hopefully on the land located just north of the hospital.
Dr. Sidney Collins made the presentation, while local dentist Tim Chase, who is also a part of the proposed venture, was present showing support.
The other 2 physicians involved are Dr. Jeffrey Reinhart and Dr. Michael Fakouri.
Dr. Collins made the presentation to the Quorum Court because the land involved is owned by the county, or county entities, and is overseen by the Quorum Court.
He clearly pointed out that this project will be financed by the group, and that they do not intend to ask the county for funding, or ask for a tax in any way.
DMH CEO Michael Layfield described a medical office building as “a collaborating venture between a hospital and the physicians.” He also said that having physicians withing walking distance would be an asset, in case of “an emergency at the hospital.”
Dr. Collins told how he decided to come to Monticello, and said that when new doctors and specialists are being recruited, there first question is about their office and facilities, continuing by adding that he is seeking to have “office space that meets the needs of my patients,” such as better ambulance access.
He also pointed out that Drs. Reinhart and Fakouri “are bursting out at the seams” at their office, even after adding on. Also noted was that all 3 physicians have leases that will be expiring in 2010.
Collins also told that he knows of an area physician that could be easily persuaded to relocate to Monticello, if this building was already in place.
The proposed building will allow all patients to enter through one primary entrance, and have access to all offices. Office space will be limited to medical professionals, possibly including imaging and other fields.
Justice of the Peace, Ron Echols, also a member of the MEDC, commented, “I’m excited, this is great.”
No decision was asked for from the court, more information will be presented later.
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We all need to encourage our Quorum Court members to offer any and all help they can to these doctors. This is a once in a lifetime chance to enhance the medical services to Monticello and Drew County. We can not stumble around and wait 6, 9 months or even a year. Support needs to be given now.
I don’t know much about Drs. Reinhart, Fakouri, or Chase but I do know that Dr. Collins is a tremendous asset to this area and we need to do everything we can to keep him and other physicians of his caliber. A facility of this nature could only enhance the appeal of the area and would fill a medical care void that this area has.
I hope the quorum court and the citizens of Drew County will support this