Rogers: ARC, State Funds Approved for Menifee County Medical Facility
Monday, September 15, 2008

Congressman Harold “Hal” Rogers (KY-05) announced today that the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has awarded $500,000 to Menifee County for a new health department building expected to improve and expand medical access for an estimated 1,900 patients each year.  The new facility will provide a much-needed replacement to the current 1,800-square-foot building to include a clinic and lab, offices and storage space.

“I have long believed that rural Americans should have access to the same quality and affordable healthcare services as are available to their urban counterparts, and this new facility puts Menifee County on track to vastly improve existing medical care and expand the number and types of services available to area families, seniors and veterans,” stated Rogers.  “Upon its completion, the new health department building will have an immediate and direct impact on the lives of Menifee County residents, and I am pleased with the federal, state and local collaboration in this effort.”

The current facility serves approximately 1,580 patients per year, but poor conditions at the aging building, along with its proximity to busy US Highway 460, have reduced the quality of patient care and decreased accessibility for disabled patients.  The new building, to be constructed along Highway 460 West in Frenchburg, will include ample space for modernized treatment services and accommodate more patients.

The awarded ARC funds will be combined with a $500,000 grant from the Kentucky Department of Public Health, and a $247,500 facilities loan from the Kentucky Association of Counties Leasing Trust.  The project is expected to cost $1.25 million in sum.
 
Rogers currently serves as a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee.  Through this role, Rogers supports important initiatives in the Fifth Congressional District.