The Scranton Primary Health Care Center is expanding to meet the growing needs of the community. CEO Joseph Hollander shared exciting updates about the center’s ongoing renovations and new services. The administrative and business offices have moved to a new 5,000-square-foot building at 921 Wyoming Ave. This relocation frees up space at the center’s original site at 959 Wyoming Ave, which is being revamped for better patient care.
Previously, a restaurant called Mayuri Indian Cuisine was demolished to make way for the new facility, with construction kicking off in March. The center aims to enhance various services, such as expanding the dental clinic and women’s health department, creating a behavioral health suite, and adding an internal medicine suite. They are also installing a second elevator to ensure accessibility throughout the building.
This expansion project is projected to cost around $3.75 million. Hollander mentioned the significant rise in the number of patients seeking care. In recent years, there has been about a 25% increase in patient visits, especially since just before the COVID-19 pandemic. “We’re trying to meet the needs of the community and provide increased access to very needed affordable care,” he said. They currently employ three dentists and recognize the demand for a fourth, alongside increasing needs in behavioral health.
The original building, a former school from 1900, has served as the center’s home since 1978. City Council President Gerald Smurl praised the center’s efforts, highlighting the importance of enhanced services, especially given the current challenges within the local hospital system. He emphasized that these services are crucial for those without adequate insurance.
As the renovations progress, more improvements are expected to wrap up by late spring or early summer. The Scranton Primary Health Care Center is committed to serving its community better, making essential healthcare more accessible for everyone.
