Feasibility study planned for new Chippewa Co. hospital

CHIPPEWA FALLS, Wis. (WEAU) - Chippewa County is looking into the possibility of building a new hospital after HSHS and Prevea’s abrupt departure from the region in March left gaps in healthcare and emergency services.

The Chippewa County Executive Committee reviewed a proposal tonight that would provide $70,000 to the cooperative for a feasibility study, which is estimated to cost $140,000.

The study, planned by the Chippewa Valley Health Cooperative, would determine the necessary financing for the project.

County Administrator Randy Scholz said a new hospital would also include a morgue and emergency services.

“We lost the hospital. Eau Claire County still has two hospitals. We really feel that there’s a need, especially for emergency services, for our EMS, for how far they have to travel to get people in and out of the emergency room, is really a big deal. It’s really hit Chippewa County hard,” Scholz said.

Along with funding, the feasibility study would include potential locations for a new hospital.

WEAU asked Chippewa County officials if the former St. Joseph’s building is a potential site for a new hospital. We were told there are currently no set plans for that property.