Gottsche update begins structure separation from HSCMH

If you haven’t driven past Gottsche Rehabilitation Center or Hot Springs County Memorial Hospital, you’re in for a delightful surprise.

The first phase of reconstruction at Gottsche is nearly finished and the entryway into Gottsche is much more patient friendly, from the covered entrance to the ramp which should be opened by Friday.

The ramp gives better access not just to Gottsche, but to Dr. Miller’s offices and Paintbrush Dental as well.

Cheryl Shero said the garden area will be re-done come spring, complete with memorials and benches along with lots of greenery to provide a quiet respite.

Currently they have begun the official disconnect from the hospital. All of the infrastructure, plumbing, HVAC, electric, etc., has been shared between the two buildings since they were built. Now the two will be separated and they hope to have that finished in January.

If everything runs on schedule, Shero said they hope to start phase II in February, which will include a complete remodel of the building from all new patient rooms to bathrooms, doctor’s offices and even a reworking of the gym.

Phase II is expected to be a six to nine month project.

“We are very, very excited about it,” Shero said. “Between us and the hospital, we’re going to be keeping the local contractors very busy.

“I am so happy for the hospital and for Gottsche. We are just creating what we hope is truly going to be a center of excellence.”