Montana News
Providence Montana to open new health care facility in Missoula
With Montana News, I'm Eleanor Smith. One of the state's largest health care networks plans to open a new health care facility next year in Missoula. MTPR's Edward O'Brien reports the addition is Providence, Montana's response to an increasing population in demand for care. The new Providence Southgate Health Center will move into Missoula's former bed, bath, and beyond near Southgate Mall. The 20,000-square-foot facility will feature urgent and primary care clinics as well as the Providence Heart Institute General Cardiology Clinic. It will also house radiology and lab services. The company says the $18 million project has been in the works for two years and is intended to improve access to health care due to rapid population growth in Missoula and Raveli counties. A Providence spokesperson tells MTPR there's currently a shortage of 14-20 primary care physicians in both counties. The health center is on track to open next summer. Reporting from Missoula, I'm Edward O'Brien.