"As the population soared in the north Shelby County, east Shelby County and south Jefferson County areas, Brookwood grew with them. A freestanding emergency department at the intersection of 280 and 119 addresses many of the needs that population is going to need for the next 15 to 20 years. We’re excited about being able to grow our services as the population continues to grow." |
Why is the issue of emergency care so important now? Simply put, medical care in north Shelby County has not kept pace with the explosive growth the 280 corridor has experienced. From 1990 to 2000, the area has grown by over 83%. In the more recent period of 2000 to 2007, there has been an additional population expansion of 34%. As a result, north Shelby County is one of Birmingham's fastest growing areas currently without hospital support. Anyone who travels Highway 280 knows continuing with things as they are is not a viable solution.
So what's the answer to this mounting crisis? Brookwood Medical Center foresaw the importance of this issue and has targeted land near the intersection of Highways 280 and 119 with the intent to build a freestanding emergency department. It will be the first of its kind in the state of Alabama - promising to provide the same services as an ER department located in a full-scale hospital. The facility would offer 24/7 care for adults and children while providing the area's only level 4 trauma center.
Brookwood Medical Center is ready to bring the necessary care to the residents of north Shelby County. On June 23, 2008, we filed a Certificate of Need. Now the CON Board must decide this issue. Your opinion on the matter could help speed up a resolution. We hope you will join with us in our effort to create an emergency department along the 280 corridor.