East Central Reporter

Sarah Bush Lincoln has started construction on a significant expansion of its Tuscola Clinic to address the increasing need for healthcare services in Douglas County and nearby areas. The project, valued at $5.2 million, will more than double the size of the current clinic, expanding it from 6,723 square feet to 16,717 square feet. The expansion will add nearly 10,000 square feet of new space while staying on the existing 2.39-acre site.

The expanded facility will feature dedicated areas for cardiology and orthopedics, as well as a full gym for physical and occupational therapy. There will also be space available for additional specialties in the future. Construction began last week and is expected to take about 12 months.

“We are excited to expand our services in Tuscola and continue investing in this community,” said Kim Uphoff, President & CEO of Sarah Bush Lincoln. “This project reflects our ongoing commitment to improving access to high-quality healthcare close to home.”

Currently, the SBL Tuscola Clinic offers primary care through Kim Whitaker, MD, and Kaci Helfrich, APRN, along with walk-in clinic services. In December, primary care access will be further expanded with the arrival of Kavitha Raman, MD, Internal Medicine. Electrophysiologist Abraham Kocheril, MD, recently began providing cardiology services at the clinic, allowing patients access to specialized heart rhythm care locally.

Tuscola Mayor Dan Kleiss commented on the development, saying, “We are thrilled that Sarah Bush Lincoln continues to invest in Tuscola. The addition of new services and expanded space will make a real difference for our residents and demonstrates SBL’s strong commitment to the future of our community.”

The expansion highlights Sarah Bush Lincoln’s ongoing commitment to enhancing healthcare access and options for people in the Tuscola region.

For more information about the project, contact Jenny Osborn, Director, Communications at 217-258-2424.