CALHOUN LIBERTY HOSPITAL CELEBRATES COMPLETION OF NEW FACILITY, MARKING A NEW ERA IN LOCAL HEALTHCARE (BLOUNTSTOWN, Fla., Thursday, July 31, 2025) – Blountstown, FL – Today, Calhoun Liberty Hospital (CLH) celebrated the completion of its new 50,000-square-foot facility with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking a significant milestone in its recovery after Hurricane Michael’s devastation. While patient care is tentatively set to begin on August 17, 2025, pending all final inspections and regulatory reviews, today’s event served as a powerful tribute to the hospital’s perseverance and the community’s ongoing support.
After Hurricane Michael’s destructive impact in 2018, 60% of the hospital’s previous facility had to be sealed off due to severe damage, leaving the hospital operating at just 40% capacity. Despite these challenges, the hospital continued to provide essential healthcare services, using over 600 sandbags to secure a temporary roof for years. With more than $47 million in funding, the hospital’s new facility will offer expanded services, including 24/7 emergency care, advanced imaging, lab services, private inpatient rooms, and telehealth capabilities. “This facility is not just a new building – it’s a symbol of our hospital’s resilience,” said Mark Plummer, Chairman of the Calhoun Liberty Hospital Association. “The road to this day was long and difficult, but thanks to the dedication of many, we now have a state-of-the-art facility that will ensure quality care for generations to come.”
State and Local Leaders Weigh In Florida Commerce Secretary Alex Kelly highlighted the broader impact on the region. “The opening of this facility is a testament to what can happen when local and state partners unite for the good of a community. This will be a catalyst for growth, not only in healthcare but in the local economy as well,” Kelly said.
Representative Shane Abbott emphasized the critical importance of CLH as a critical access hospital. “There is no other hospital within 35 miles, making this facility absolutely vital for the residents of Calhoun, Liberty, and the surrounding areas. This hospital’s operation is critical for our rural community, ensuring that families don’t have to travel far for essential healthcare,” Abbott said. “Today marks a major milestone in keeping healthcare local and accessible.”
Representative Jason Shoaf, who represents neighboring Liberty and Gulf Counties and also endured the storm, reflected on the long road to recovery. “This day seemed far away many times, but I’m proud to say that it’s finally here,” Shoaf said. “This new hospital is a shining example of how perseverance and partnership can lead to something even better. Today is a victory for the entire region.” Former Senator Bill Montford, a long-time advocate for rural issues, added, “The heart of this community pushed this project through. This hospital represents a fresh start and a new beginning for Calhoun and Liberty Counties. It’s a symbol of what can be achieved when we work together to invest in the future.”
Looking to the Future
With patient care tentatively set to begin on August 17, 2025, the hospital’s new capabilities will reduce the need for residents to travel long distances for medical care, improving healthcare access for both Calhoun and Liberty Counties. “This is just the beginning,” said Emily Brown, CEO of Calhoun Liberty Hospital. “As we continue to expand services and build capacity, we will ensure even greater access to care for our community.”
The ribbon cutting today marks a pivotal moment, but the road ahead promises continued growth. The hospital is already planning for Phase II, which will include the expansion of inpatient capacity, outpatient services and the addition of an operating suite.
About Calhoun Liberty Hospital
Calhoun Liberty Hospital (CLH) is a non-profit, critical access hospital serving Calhoun and Liberty Counties in Florida. In partnership with Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare and Alliant Management Services, CLH is committed to providing high-quality, compassionate care while expanding services to meet the region’s healthcare needs. For more information, visit CalhounLibertyHospital.co m.
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